I started my college experience as an aimless, undeclared freshman, and I am finishing it as the editor-in-chief of The Chanticleer, which feels surreal in reflection.
I joined this publication hoping it would force me to write. I never expected to connect with journalism the way I did.
Now, I have the ability and privilege to use my voice in a way that combines my interests in communication and writing.
Journalism, to me, is writing stories that need to be told. I think there is a responsibility to tell the truth, especially in this golden age of misinformation and disinformation.
Being part of this student-led newspaper triggered a passion in me that I didn’t know existed. It has allowed me to unleash my inner storyteller, and with that, the different ways in which stories may be told.
That is my hope for my staff: to unleash their inner strengths. To explore, through journalism, what they wish to excel at.
This publication has made exponential progress, a testament to those who came before me. I plan to keep the momentum going.
We cannot grow as people, journalists or a publication if we do not first push ourselves outside our comfort zones.
Slight discomfort can lead to beautiful change and growth. I’m excited to take my staff with me on this journey.
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of a select few professors and their encouragements to stay curious. I owe a lot to my mentors at The Chanticleer, namely Madison Sharrock and Brooke Bromberg. I cherish learning from others, and I will use my platform to listen, learn and teach.
I am beyond excited to see where progress takes us.
With love,
EIC
