I still remember the first time I walked into the Design Lab, terrified because I knew almost no one in my class. As soon as I entered that space though, it quickly became my favorite room in the Upper School.
My first two years on The Voice, the seniors inspired me and quickly became role models of mine. Their talent in the field of journalism and their kind and welcoming attitudes showed me what a true Saint and leader looks like. They encouraged me to tackle new subjects and write out of my comfort zone. I still remember the first article I wrote in September of 2022. It was about Serena Williams retiring from tennis. I asked my mom to edit that article more times than I would like to admit. It felt like so much pressure to be published in the school newspaper. Luckily the article turned out okay, but let’s just say I never want to read that again!
Over the years, I’ve written on dozens of topics, ranging from ones about gun violence and immigration to fentanyl, mental health, and the pink tax. I’ve shared my political beliefs countless times, sharing my first hand experience of campaigning for Kamala Harris and writing about January 6. Journalism has been a way for me to share my opinions and stand up for what I believe in. It’s allowed me to learn so much about the world around me, and it has given me the opportunity to educate others about the state of our nation and current events. Throughout my time as an editor these past two years, I’ve seen our paper grow, each staff member become more confident in their writing abilities, and dozens of incredible stories come to life from brainstorm to byline.
While this is all incredibly valuable to me, what makes The Voice my home at SSSAS is the people I get to see in the Design Lab each day, so I want to say thank you to those who have made me into the journalist I am today.
Thank you Mick Heller for your wisdom and expertise in the field of Journalism. It has allowed me to grow as a writer more than I could have ever imagined. Thank you to Ms. McElroy who has inspired me, guided me, and taught me throughout all four years of my highschool career. Along with being the best journalism teacher I could ask for, she is also the best English teacher and advisor, and I’m going to miss her so much next year. Thank you to Ben Booma who has been the most talented writer and layout design partner for the past three years, and the best friend for the past 17. Thank you to Tatum, Jordin, and Rose for bringing laughter, fun, and kindness to the newsroom 24/7. Thank you to all my fellow seniors for an incredible last year together. To everyone else in the newsroom- you are all so talented and incredible writers, and I can’t wait to read your articles next year and beyond. Lastly, thank you to all of our readers who continue to support student journalism. Thank you for giving me, and my peers, the opportunity to share our voices and allow our writing to have an impact on the community.
These past three years flew by, but the memories aren’t going anywhere. Next year I will be studying at Wake Forest University, and I plan to major in communications with a minor in journalism. I will bring with me all of the lessons taught to me in the SSSAS newsroom and will continue to use my writing to create change in our world. Farewell to my favorite place with my favorite people!
