The first time I heard about Journalism was from my English teacher, and the promise of “Breakfast Fridays.” Students sharing a box of donuts while reading through the last edition sounded all too appetizing.
Since then, I’ve not only had dozens of donuts, but written dozens of great articles, met dozens of great people, and learned dozens of lessons – a few that I want to share with you, so that when course selection for next year comes around, you’ll at the very least consider joining the Viking Saga team.
Tough Work, Big Reward
I will be 100 percent honest with you: this class is challenging. The Saga publishes a new edition every two weeks, and we waste no time at all from the moment ideas are formed to the time it goes to print. After the first semester as a J1 (Journalism 1 student), you also begin to receive honors credit for your work, making it far more than just an elective on the side.
The upside, however, is the level of freedom and responsibility you can enjoy almost immediately in the class. You are the one who pitches the story ideas, you are out in the field interviewing people for stories, and you get to see your writing be published and spread throughout the ELHS community for everyone to see. In the words of class advisor Jeff Beale, “Where else do you have as much of an opportunity to make your voice heard and make change happen in your school than in A225?”
By Students, For Students
One of the characteristics that makes Journalism so unique is that it’s majority student-run. Your articles are edited by students who were in your exact same position only a couple years ago, and they’re there to help provide the support and feedback you need to allow you to work to the best of your ability. I remember my editors being very supportive, and now that I’m in their position, I try to emulate their help as best as I can.
More Than Just A Class
I’ve compared Journalism to a lot of activities. The environment feels more like a club than a class, and with all the responsibilities that come with an actual job. It’s also helped me find out what path I want to take in the future, leading me to pursue fields in communications in college. But most of all, I appreciate what this class has done for me in finding my voice, and making me feel more comfortable in leadership roles and speaking in general.
This might not feel like the right class for you, but even then, I ask that you try it anyways. It’s an eye-opening experience for everybody, including for those who aren’t as passionate about it as I am. And hey, I just joined for the donuts; now look how far I’ve come!
Why not you?
