Note: This portfolio was used for the JEA Journalist of the Year competition and remains unchanged as of May 2019.
I have always loved writing. I took a Communication Arts course as a freshman and a Basics of Broadcasting course as a sophomore, reaffirming that I wanted to pursue journalism further as an upperclassman. I have written for my school's printed publication, the Padua Antonian, since I was a freshman, and began writing for the online publication, Padua360, in my junior year. My love for journalism was immensely strengthened when I had the opportunity to represent Delaware at the 2018 Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Conference.
Free Spirit was much more than just a conference to me. It was an opportunity to see the vast world of journalism in all its facets—from Pulitzer prize-winning reporters to those who work tirelessly to protect the rights of journalists and those who work in the legal field, defending the liberties outlined in the First Amendment. Along with expanding my connections in ways that will forever impact the course of my life, I also realized how important a dedication to the tenets of the First Amendment is to me.
I have dedicated significant time to improving my school's publications, currently working as the editor-in-chief of Padua360. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with my staff to improve their writing, reporting, and editing skills, improving my own skills in the process. I especially enjoy working with freshmen to further their understanding of the importance of the press early on in their high school careers.
I look forward to further improving my own editing and reporting skills as well as building connections in the future.