Erin O'Brien

Erin O’Brien is a WUSF/USF Zimmerman School digital news intern for summer 2019.

Born and raised in Clearwater, Erin moved to Tampa to attend the University of South Florida. She is a senior at USF pursuing a degree in journalism with a concentration in news – editorial.

Sex Education In Hillsborough County: To Teach Or Not To Teach?

By • Nov 18, 2019

With the Florida Department of Health reporting a significant increase in the number of sexually transmitted diseases cases, some are calling for sex education reform.

Hillsborough County is one of 15 Florida districts that agreed to implement a comprehensive sex education system two years ago. This means that during classes, students learn not only about abstinence, but also safe sex practices. 

High Concentrations Of Red Tide Causing Fish Kills in Sarasota County

By • Nov 12, 2019

Red tide is getting worse in the Tampa Bay area, causing fish kills last week in parts of Sarasota County.

Immigration Policies Affect Mental Health Of Undocumented Immigrants, Researcher Says

By • Oct 28, 2019

Immigration laws pushed by the Trump administration are having significant impacts on the psychological well-being of young people in America and sometimes can even lead to suicidal behavior, a researcher from the University of South Florida said.

Veterans And First Responders Are At Risk For Suicide, New Initiatives Offer Help

By • Sep 9, 2019

National Suicide Prevention Week begins Sunday, and first responders and veterans are the focus of two local summits.

Florida's Population Growing By 900 People A Day, Report Says

By • Jul 29, 2019

More than 300,000 people have moved to Florida each year since 2015 and state economists are predicting the trend to continue into 2024.