My three years on staff undoubtedly contained a lot of hard work and learning experiences that would be impossible to find anywhere else.

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The first thing I learned as an editor-in-chief is that everyone needs help, no matter their position. My co-editor junior year was a journalistic powerhouse. In my eyes there was nothing she couldn’t do. At the beginning of the year, I let myself peacefully fall into her shadow. However I learned that every good leader needs a good partner, and standing in the shadows was no way to be helpful. I started to take charge. I stopped waiting for her to ask for help. I fixed problems before she realized they arose while she did the same for me. We became a fluid machine. No matter how perfect she seemed, I realized there was no reason I could not reach that level.

 

Later in the year, we presented at the JEA/NSPA convention in Indianapolis on how to overcome First Amendment challenges. While fighting for First Amendment rights is extremely challenging, helping other students who are going through the same thing is just as rewarding. I learned that growing as a journalist means nothing if you cannot help those around you grow as well.

 

This idea of growth has been a big theme in my leadership style. I have pushed my peers to take positive risks on their page. Whether it be going for that big story or trying an innovative design, my answer is almost always "yes!" However with every risk, there is a chance of messing up, requiring a back-up plan. Messing up in a newspaper is a forever mistake, but taking risks creates a basis for a strong relationship between editors and editor-in-chief. The respect and confidence that result are more beneficial to a newspaper than another page of average design will ever be.

 

This year, my new co-editor, Sidney, and I have done a better job at creating a supportive environment. We put faith in our editors to write controversial stories and encourage them to pursue their ideas. For example, we asked our social media and arts and entertainment editor to write an investigative news piece about a fraudulent speaker. While regularly checking in, they wrote an amazing story. When they felt the story was becoming too complicated for them, we sat down with them and walked through the information together. I wholeheartedly believe that there is no better attribute for a leader than someone who can instill confidence in others to lead.

 

Personally, I have grown from someone who was nervous approaching teachers for help to a mature, respected editor who regularly communicated with administrators. Journalism has grown my self confidence more than any other aspect of my life. It has truly shown me how valuable my voice is and how to stand my ground and stick to what I believe in. Without this strong voice, I could've never met with our superintendent and principal to fight for our First Amendment rights. Additionally, it has made me carry myself in a manner that is respected by students and teachers alike. My adviser always reminds us that as editors of the newspaper, people know who we are. While at first the statement made me uncomfortable, it now creates a sense of responsibility I would not trade the world for.

 

Most importantly, journalism has allowed me to help others. My involvement in the newspaper solidified the desire for me to keep helping and informing others in the future. I expect that whatever school I end up at, the paper will become a priority for me there. However, in college I hope to do more advocacy for First Amendment rights outside of my own school.

 

Using my voice is pointless if it does not also help others find theirs. My most successful stories have raised awareness for minority groups and issues at the school because they gave people confidence. Writing for the newspaper is a privilege that few have and it should not be taken for granted. I have poured my heart and soul into this journalism program and can only hope this portfolio shows that.