Self-Analytical Essay

My interest for journalism began in the small town I grew up in, which had about 1,200 residents. When I was old enough to ride my bike across town, I would pedal to the little gas station on Main Street once a week to purchase an orange push pop and grab the local paper from the wire rack that sat next to the fishing worms. Afterward, I would speedily pedal my way home to read the paper. This was my first interaction with journalism, and it has left a lasting impression. After moving to a larger town with varied class options, I enrolled in a journalism class in a spur-of-the-moment decision. I didn't expect it to become my favorite subject. However, I find it rewarding to write stories that otherwise wouldn't get the recognition they deserve. 

My interest in journalism is partly rooted in my respect for the First Amendment, especially the freedom of the press. Journalism is a powerful tool that allows diverse viewpoints to be expressed and can help challenge thinking. A governmentally independent media is vital for the American people to hold those in power accountable. Ronald Reagan once said, "Freedom is never more than one generation from extinction." With the power of a free press, free thinkers can bring issues to the table, and allow for a wide audience to gain access to valuable information that can be an asset to change. 

My passion for journalism centers around sparking meaningful conversations, conveying untold stories, and inspiring positive change through media. In writing for our school newspaper, I strive to be unbiased when narrating controversial stories. For example, I covered a story about a transgender athlete in collegiate volleyball that was relevant to our community because the player was competing against the largest college in Wyoming. In the story, I only wrote about the facts, while also quoting opinions from our student body. I also write about little-known subject matters that are important to inform readers about in order to help them in their day-to-day lives. In the past, I have written about a community child who was in a vehicular accident with a street sweeper, Make-A-Wish, and a high-school student who was in a bad accident on icy roads. I hope to write an engaging narrative, while also educating the public.  

Another passion of mine is photojournalism. When you first open a magazine, where do your eyes fixate? You probably notice the photographs first before moving on to the main story. Likewise, the main appeal of social media lies within visuals and short-form content. Many young people are drawn to the photographs before clicking on a news story. Photojournalism is now more than ever an important part of the journalism industry. I am very passionate about photography and am enamored with the stories you can tell through a singular photograph. 

Since I first became invested in journalism, my communication, writing, and photography skills have improved. Better yet, I have grown as a person through journalism.