Although I have spent the last two and a half years studying English education, prior to college I spent three years writing and editing for my high school student newspaper, The Wildcat. I had predisposed ideas of news and how one goes about journalistic writing, my style was already in place. Joining The Muleskinner I was somewhat abruptly awakened to the world of newspaper reporting as I was asked to conduct my stories how I saw fit. My eyes were finally opened to just how impactful our words can actually be, I gained journalistic freedom in a way I never really imagined.
During my years as a student journalist, I have learned many things that I will cherish for my entire career. The quality I have taken on that brings me the most joy is my aspiration for innovation. Anybody involved in informative media can attest to the fact that our world and the way we digest information is rapidly changing.
Becoming the Muleskinners Managing Editor, one of my biggest goals is to push our publication to heights we didn’t know were possible. If we want to stay relevant and produce life-changing, groundbreaking news, we must never stop getting better because as it shows, our society does not plan on slowing down anytime soon.
Nothing has inspired me more than our staff’s idea to produce a “Special Kickoff Edition” of our Muleskinner print edition. I saw this opportunity to draw student attention to the beauty that is journalism. Since joining the Muleskinner I have built a confidence that I have never had in myself as a writer. I was provided with a family that supported me and wanted nothing more than for me to succeed, doing what I love, and producing interesting and informative news stories.
Being given the opportunity to write and influence the world with my stories allowed me to grow into the genuine writer and leader that I am. In the six months I have been a member of this staff I have watched not only myself but my peers blossom into the next generation of pioneering journalists and leaders. Our dedication to thrive under pressure and transform rather than combust has further solidified my career in journalism.
