Drew Goins from Jeopardy: A Second Chance for a Journalist from Hawaii

Drew Goins, a Assistant Op-Ed Editor at The Washington Post, has captivated audiences with his intellect and charm on Jeopardy!. Currently based in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, but maintaining strong ties to Washington, D.C., Drew began his journalism career in 2016 as a summer intern on the news multiplatform desk at The Post. Over the years, he transitioned to the Opinions section, where he has become a vital voice in elevating underrepresented perspectives.

Before joining The Post, Drew honed his journalistic skills at the Virginian-Pilot and even gained experience in public service with the U.S. Department of Education. A multilingual professional fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, Drew’s focus on a digital-first approach has made him a standout in modern journalism. His commitment to precision and clarity shines through in every piece he edits or writes, underscoring why he has achieved such prominence in his field.

A Stellar Academic Journey

Drew’s path to success began at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he graduated with a perfect 4.0 GPA, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Hispanic Linguistics. His academic excellence was matched by his active involvement in extracurricular activities. From writing for the Daily Tar Heel to serving as an Admissions Ambassador and participating in Sigma Delta Pi, Drew was a well-rounded student who left an indelible mark on campus life.

He also broadened his horizons by studying abroad at Universidad de Navarra in Pamplona, Spain, where he immersed himself in a global perspective on journalism and linguistics. These experiences not only shaped his professional capabilities but also deepened his passion for storytelling and language, qualities that have served him well both in his career and on Jeopardy!

The Journey to Jeopardy

Drew first appeared on Jeopardy! in September 2024, where his quick wit and deep knowledge impressed viewers. While he didn’t clinch a win during his first appearance, he left a strong impression, earning a spot in the Jeopardy! Second Chance tournament. Competing against fierce opponents like Jonquil Garrick-Reynolds and Steve Miller on January 6, 2025, Drew showcased his growth and determination, earning a thrilling victory with a final score of $36,801.

His return to the iconic game show reflects his resilience and competitive spirit. As a journalist, Drew has spent his career analyzing and interpreting information, skills that undoubtedly give him an edge when tackling the show’s challenging clues.

Personal Life and Representation

As an openly gay man, Drew is proud of his identity and committed to representing his community. His success on Jeopardy! and in his professional life serves as an inspiration to many. Balancing his career between the idyllic landscapes of Hawaiʻi and the bustling energy of Washington, D.C., Drew embodies versatility and adaptability.

Outside of work and television, Drew is passionate about language, culture, and uplifting diverse voices through his editorial work. Whether editing op-eds or answering Jeopardy! clues, Drew approaches every challenge with thoughtfulness and precision.

A Bright Future

Drew Goins has already achieved remarkable success in journalism and on Jeopardy! His second chance on the show not only highlights his competitive spirit but also his ability to learn, grow, and shine under pressure. As he continues to navigate the worlds of journalism and game show trivia, fans and readers alike eagerly anticipate his next achievements.