With COVID-19 commandeering half of my middle school experience, I'd developed no real identity to govern myself with in high school. So when it eventually came to forecasting classes for my freshman year, I had no idea what I would like.  Ultimately, I forecasted to enter South Salem's Broadcast Journalism program; it seemed like a good way to get involved and to make some much needed friend. I had just unknowingly embarked down one of life's greatest creative mediums -- journalism. At least I think it is, and here's why.

Over the past four years, what "school" has meant to me is working with my Adviser Brian Eriksen. Whether it's writing an article, creating a yearbook spread, filming promo content, photography, recording a podcast or firing on the tri-caster to film a TV show, journalism is my center. Regardless of the way I do it, student journalism has taught me the power and need for a protected student voice. I've created pieces about politics, gun violence, funding discrepancies, all hard-hitting truths our youth may not have known about otherwise. 

Likewise, I've used my platform to educate others and call on them to fight against our current administration. As well as that, I've targeted flaws in the Salem-Keizer School District and urged my leaders to fight for change for our students' protection.

Recently, I've volunteered to copy edit Portland's Street Roots newspaper.  Working with these gritty, progressive Portland journalists, I've reestablished within myself that journalism is more than words. It's a civic duty that our communities need. 

The world relies on journalism. And whether it's breaking a news story or spotlighting local excellence, people need stories. It's our job as journalists to provide them. And, it's what I'm dedicated to doing now and in my professional career.