THANKS FOR THE VISIT!

WOW! I cannot believe I am near the closing of this chapter of life. Working in student media has provided me with countless opportunities and life lessons that I will cherish all throughout my life. Not only have I developed skills in design and writing, but also personal traits that have shaped me into the person I am today. 

I started as a new editor, with a new teacher, and a completely new staff. It was a learning experience for everyone on staff, but what I took away was patience. I was eager to work on the book, but developed the skill of patience as I worked to introduce everyone to the production. Going into my second year as editor, I gained the skill of perseverance. Student participation fell, conflicts began breaking out on staff, and I began to feel like a failure as a leader. Even though it would’ve been much easier to give up, I persevered.  Passing out the final product of the yearbook is a feeling that is unmatched. Being able to deliver a book to the entire student body and other Maverick families reminds me why I keep learning and growing in journalism. Watching students flip through the book, I once overheard, “I didn’t even know we had a bowling team.” While I wasn’t the first editor to include a variety of sports and clubs at Southside, it is so nice to continue to represent and recognize everyone in our book.

Entering my final year as editor, I started with another new teacher and lots of new staff. Similar to my first year, except I had gained a tremendous amount of experience and confidence. I am comfortable in my position and I love the work I produce. My journalistic techniques have majorly improved over the years, but my skills as a leader have shined brighter than ever. Because of Mav Media, I have grown my mindset, organization, communication skills, and leadership. I am extremely grateful for the life skills and opportunities my position has given me. However, my time in journalism is just beginning. 

I plan to expand my knowledge throughout college by majoring in advertising and public relations. Mav Media is where I found my belonging in high school and I strive to have the same community with the journalism program at the University of Arkansas. Looking back on the past four years, I have noticed a tremendous amount of growth, so I can not imagine how much more my skills will develop in future classes and careers. 

GOODBYE FOR NOW,

Kathryn Bunnell