I joined journalism in the 9th grade because it seemed to combine many of my loves: writing, talking to people, advocacy, policy. Four years later, I have continued to practice journalism because it has taught me the power of storytelling, true collaboration and the connections that tie us together.

In an era of self-censorship, consequences to free speech and misinformation, I have found my journalism must function as both a window and a mirror. As a window, it must work to offer the ability to look into all facets of our complex community - from learning about the struggles and accomplishments of groups and teachers, to understanding the behind-the-scenes of administration and the impact of decisions and harmful cultures. Student journalism has an obligation to inform with truth and best intentions, to shine a spotlight on underrepresented groups and experiences, to spread awareness and capture school life in its entirety, to celebrate our successes and joy present in our community. Journalism as storytelling functions as a vessel of empathy - a view into the lives of others, an understanding of collective humanity and the bridging of individual experiences. As a mirror, I publish to prompt reflection and progress; student journalism must promote individual and communal change. Journalism - other people’s stories - can prompt us to look at ourselves, our impacts on others, our roles in our communities. 

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As Editor-in-Chief: Print, I have worked for The Standard to truly feel accessible to every member of my school’s community, while constantly working to balance the needs and ideas of my entire team. Managing a team of 50 students across the high school has required constant communication, flexibility and deep trust in the dedication and integrity of my peers. 

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Encouraging teamwork and healthy discourse is at the center of my role. During my time as EIC: Print, I have implemented new Editorial Board practices to increase our collaboration and efficiency as a team, such as reflections on impact, communication and content quality/variety after every print cycle, and quarterly personal and group reflection and goal-setting activities where editors can identity collective and individual areas of strength and improvement. At the start of our Editorial Board’s first-ever print issue, I facilitated a number of bonding activities to unite and familiarize our editors, asking them to reflect and share their interests, working styles, and areas where they may need support. At the end of our first semester as a class, I led a group activity where editors wrote down individual and group accomplishments they were proud of, big or small, and took turns reading out and celebrating these successes for each other. 

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These changes allow our Editorial Board to be a space of vulnerability and reflection - vulnerability required for risk-taking and embracing discomfort and challenge, skills necessary for encouraging creativity, authentic communication, and open-mindedness. 

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Journalism is deeply humanist. At the center of my journalism is people - the sources who shape our stories, the reporters asking questions, the broadcasters who create our news network, the designers who make their creative visions come to life in our paper. 

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As a journalist, I have not only learned to think on my feet and problem solve quickly, but also understand that everyone has a story, a common thread that ties all of us together. As Editor-in-Chief, I encourage all members of my staff, regardless of position, how to work as a united collective driven by curiosity, dedication, truth and empathy.