Applying for Journalism 1 during freshman course registration, I was eager to explore my passion for writing, social justice, and their points of intersection. However, like every other 2024 graduate, freshman year was starkly overshadowed by the COVID pandemic, leaving me and my peers largely isolated from the outside world - with the notable exception of social media. Our world revolved around the platforms Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter (now X), as they maintained our communication and connections. Without it, we were alone. In turn, I found my perspective being limited by an increasingly social-media-curated worldview.  

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I found it was easy to fall into the dangerous habit of attaching myself to whatever belief my favorite activist or politician espoused at the time. It took no effort to claim their ideas as my own while simultaneously making me feel good about myself and position on the subject. My timely introduction to the world of journalism and student reporting during this tumultuous time brought me into a new environment that required rapid learning yet valued independent critical analysis; I soon grew to understand the merit of thoroughly considered and well-formed ideas.

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An elevated outlook into the polarized political atmosphere and an outlet for thought development, journalism taught me how to think critically, conduct research from reputable sources, and above all - connect. When I found myself walking school hallways alongside my peers once more, the gratitude I developed for the lessons in conversation given to me by journalism was immeasurable. For the first time, I felt capable, open-minded, and with a strong sense of my personal convictions. I had believed open-mindedness and personal conviction were mutually exclusive for so long, but journalism granted me the knowledge that I did not have to sacrifice one to have the other. 

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Despite the coffee-fueled sleepless nights that journalism fomented, I loved it more and more every day. As friendships were forged and strengthened, I realized that not only had I found my passion: I had found my people. Shared stress and constant laughter reinforced our bonds made in the newsroom. Our deep stress was strong, but our joy and senses of belonging were even stronger; I knew with every idea I expressed that I was welcomed and valued. My heart beats the strongest and my breath is the steadiest in The Cougar Chronicle's newsroom.

 

What we have given each other is permanently instilled in my life. I strive to ensure all feel wanted and know they are seen when they are with me. As I reflect on my experience in journalism, I realize its prominent role in shaping my hope for what is to come; as I look to this future that holds diverse experiences, I further work to enable my appreciation and love for community to allow more opportunities to explore our world, create new and beautiful friendships, and deepen my social adeptness through ever-expanding, insatiable curiosity. 

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For all of this, I thank the challenging, spirited, and vibrant environment of journalism.