I never thought I would be anything close to a writer. I grew up extremely logical, finding comfort in the idea that there was always one correct answer. Due to this mindset, as a child, I despised writing; there was no formula, there was no concrete way to do something like a math equation. Writing felt unpredictable, and I was uncomfortable with how easily my work could fall short of the perfect presentation that I expected from myself.
When I first entered journalism in my sophomore year, discomfort defined nearly every experience–not only due to the writing, but also the interactions it required. My first interview was done with a partner, and I practically observed while he asked the questions. At this time, I associated those feelings of discomfort with failure. If something felt challenging, I assumed it meant I did not belong. However, journalism consistently placed me in situations where discomfort was unavoidable, and growth was my only option.
Over time, I found that the moments that made me most uncomfortable were the ones that changed me the most. Each interview rose to higher stakes, progressing from conversations with classmates to discussions with organization owners, college professors, and professional journalists. I grew as an interviewer and began setting simple goals, such as asking follow-up questions and maintaining eye contact. I discovered that the more intimidating a story was, the more committed I became to pursuing it. If the story pushed me out of my comfort zone, it meant that it was important.
Beyond this change in comfort, through journalism, I discovered my passion for advocacy. I was thrown into a world that valued the creativity of writing, the motivation to find a story, to adapt to it, and to have my words on a page convey the same importance as the situation in real life. Journalism has given me the ideal outlet where I can help others by writing, observing, and asking the difficult questions–skills that once intimidated me, but now are my guide.
My strongest work in journalism has focused on accountability, where I use writing as a way to examine decisions and their impact. I am drawn to the stories that analyze decisions made by those in power as they grant me the opportunity to research policies and ask thoughtful questions. Journalism is the ideal output where my passion for advocacy can be expressed. I plan to use my skills in writing to hold others accountable, inform the public, and speak up for those who cannot.
I know discomfort will remain inevitable as I continue my work in journalism. In the fall, I will attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where I will major in Media and Journalism. I also plan to apply to be a writer for the university's student newspaper, The Daily Tar Heel. As I move toward this degree and professional setting, I understand that to grow, I must place myself in unfamiliar situations and continue to hold myself to high standards. I do not expect to be perfect, but I do expect to be intentional in ways such as seeking out challenging stories and refining my interviewing techniques.
Journalism is more than a class on my schedule or an activity I devote my time to; it is the career I intend to pursue. My goal is to be a reporter, particularly covering politics and public policy. Due to this desire, I also wish to minor in Political Science during my time at UNC-Chapel Hill so I can develop the knowledge and skills necessary to report on such events effectively. I wish to report politically because it plays a vital role in keeping the public informed about decisions made by those in power. Transparency is important in a healthy society, and I hope that as a journalist I can inform others while advocating for communities in need.
Ultimately, what began as a fear of imperfection has transformed into a source of motivation. I used to view writing as unpredictable and intimidating, but it has shown me the power of persistence and advocacy. Journalism has taught me that discomfort is not a signal of failure but a sign that I am growing. As I move forward, I carry a commitment to pursue difficult topics, challenge authority, and use my voice to make a change. I won’t find a “perfect” answer, but I will continue to learn how the most important work comes from asking the questions that matter, even when uncertainty lies ahead.