Journalism has changed the trajectory of my future. When I joined Mustang TV and Pony Express, I had no idea what I was getting myself into; I barely knew what journalism encompassed. Never in a million years would I have thought being apart of this world of journalism would have presented me the opportunities I have been presented nor how much I would have learned.
Journalism has sculpted my mind into thinking differently, whether that's knowing there is always two sides to a story (and sometimes even a third) or instilling me with the ability to communicate effectively with just about anyone. From anchoring our daily show to writing my heart out in an article, I have found a love and passion which I hope to pursue as a career.
I must say, my journalist journey has not been easy. When I joined back in 2021 I struggled a lot with various aspects of the job. I didn't know how to insert a SSD drive or reformat a SD card. Heck, I even struggled with gathering evidence for my story and distinguishing how my story was relevant. Now, as Editor-in-Chief, I help my peers with those exact questions that I can now provide an answer too.
Journalism has provided me with a way to express myself that I never knew existed and now my main goal is to aid others with the same advice and nourishment that was instilled within me.
MSPA FINALIST FOR BEST OPENING SEQUENCE (2022-2023)
"MUSTANG TV"
MSPA FINALIST FOR BEST CREATIVITY (2022-2023)
"MUSTANG TV"
MSPA FINALIST FOR BEST DAILY NEWSCAST (2021-2022)
"MUSTANG TV"
CENTER HILL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT OF THE MONTH (NOVEMBER 2023)
Michael has been a go-getter from the moment I met him. He has such an authenticity about his character that makes everyone in the room smile and that makes him a great team leader. He might not always know exactly what he's doing, but he's always willing to try something new. He's got his hands full with the amount of clubs and activities he's a part of at CHHS, and he holds enough school spirit for the entire student body.
Over the past three years, I've watched Michael really develop in his journalistic skills. From his photography to his on-air personality, Michael has really stepped into his element and worked hard to get better. He plans to continue his education in the field of media and journalism, and I'm excited to see where it takes him! I highly recommend him as a member of the All Mississippi finalists for this year's MSPA awards.
Sincerely, Ashtyn S. McAdams
Advisor for The Pony Express (CHHS's student newspaper), The Mustang (CHHS's student yearbook), & inkstained (CHHS's literary magazine)