Entering my senior year at UM-Dearborn, I was determined to start something new with my college career. I started thinking more about my future, which I still do and am worried about. But being a Journalism and Screen Studies major, I thought about what I’d put in my portfolio to show off my writing skills. Aside from projects I’ve worked on in numerous classes, I needed to do something else, and that’s where The Michigan Journal came along to help.
I thought about writing for the school newspaper plenty of times, and kept putting it off, which I definitely regret now. I love writing and talking about different things, especially when it comes to films, television shows, and music. So during the Fall 2019 semester, I decided to reach out to the Editor-In-Chief about becoming a Staff Writer and writing for the Arts and Entertainment section. After speaking to both the Editor-In-Chief and Arts and Entertainment Editor, I joined the paper!
It was the easiest process ever, and the team was (and still is) filled with some of the most friendliest and talented people I have ever met. I made so many friends working with The Michigan Journal, some of who I’ve had classes with before.
Writing as a Staff Writer was filled with memorable experiences. I wrote an article about one of my favorite rappers, and actually met him at his show and got to share my article with him. I’ve gotten emails from people who have read my articles and received great feedback, and even had professors comment on my excellent writing skills.
Once the Fall 2019 semester ended, I was offered the position of Arts and Entertainment Editor. I was overfilled with joy, and happy that my hard work pays off. However, I realized that it was time for me to step out of my comfort zone as a very shy introvert and learn to speak out more.
But the entire Michigan Journal team made it easy for this transition, and I got over being worried quickly. I absolutely loved being the Arts and Entertainment Editor, and always looked forward to seeing what my team wrote every week. It was definitely one of the best experiences of my entire college career, and helped me grow as not only a better editor, but especially a better leader.
If there’s one piece of advice I could offer to anyone who is considering writing for the paper, or joining any organization at school: DO IT.
I was one of those people who thought “why bother, I just want to get my degree and go.” But after much consideration, I stepped out of my comfort zone and went with it. Working with the paper enhanced my writing skills and helped improve my portfolio for future employers to see. Overall, being a part of The Michigan Journal was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I don’t regret it at all.
Special thanks to my loving family and friends for supporting me, along with the ENTIRE Michigan Journal team, especially Kyla Bazzy, and the best Journalism and Screen Studies professors ever: Tim Kiska, Jim Schaefer, Bill McMillan, Jim Gilmore, Jennifer Proctor, and Tony Luckett.
Good luck to the new and upcoming Michigan Journal team, I cannot wait to see what you guys put out!
