About & History

Meet Trace

I’m studying Communication with an emphasis in Journalism and Media Production at Wichita State University. My path here took some exploring, but creating media and sharing my thoughts about it kept bringing me back.

Trace The Rater gives me a place to turn that interest into reviews, videos, rankings, and commentary while developing my writing, reporting, and production skills.

What you’ll find here

I cover television, film, music, and video games, along with entertainment news and occasional lifestyle and mental health topics. Animation, teen shows, and music are some of my biggest interests, but I enjoy exploring beyond my favorites.

My reviews reflect my own experience with what I watch, play, and hear. I want to explain what works for me, what doesn’t, and why—while leaving room for other people to feel differently.

Explore my favorites & interests →

Read about my rating system →

How I got here

1. Early experiments

   Before Trace The Rater, I experimented with gaming videos, toy videos, and animation-inspired stories. Those early projects gave me a way to play with ideas and discover how much I enjoyed making content.

2. Around 2021 · Sharing more online

   I began using platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Discord, sharing more about my life and connecting with people online as my focus shifted away from YouTube for a while.

3. 2024 · Starting reviews

   I started making reviews about things I liked. I was still learning how to express my opinions and build a routine. There were long gaps between uploads, but reviewing gave my interest in media a clearer direction.

4. 2026 · Finding my direction

   After exploring different career interests, I chose journalism and media production. I began studying at Wichita State and working toward a future centered on writing, storytelling, and creating media.

5. September 25, 2026 · Trace The Rater begins

   I brought my renewed focus on reviews and media together under the Trace The Rater name. Earlier work, including Trace Reviews Stuff, was part of the learning process that led here.

6. Today · Building the next chapter

   I’m continuing to develop my voice through articles, short videos, and reviews, while learning how to become a stronger journalist and media creator.

Where I’m headed

My goal is to grow Trace The Rater into an independent media business, starting with work I can keep improving: thoughtful reviews, engaging videos, and stories that connect with audiences.

I’m also interested in meeting fellow creators, covering local entertainment, and building connections in Wichita and beyond. This website is a home for that work as it develops.