Integrity taught through journalism by Hanna

Integrity taught through journalism by Hanna - June 2018 Scholarship Essay

I did not realize when I joined Echo, my high school newspaper, how much it would change my life. Being on the school paper taught me how to work effectively with others and how to be a good writer and journalist. High school students should be involved in a school publication, whether it be newspaper, yearbook, or a magazine. The ability to publish content and make an impact in one's community is a feeling all should share. Not only does participating in a publication improve one’s writing but is also a place to interact with friends. I’ve learned how to take on a story with another writer and effectively communicate. Furthermore, students on publication can tweak it to serve their interests. Students could be a part of the business side, design, photo, writing and many more. Publications are versatile and provide a platform for students to learn and grow.

By being on the high school newspaper I was able to pursue stories that interest me and publish articles that will affect the community. While I was In-Depth editor I managed the story called “The Diversity of Thought.” “The Diversity of Thought” explored how conservative students in my school felt silenced by the liberal campus atmosphere. My team and I interviewed students from many political viewpoints, initiated a school wide poll, and published the results. The reaction I received was very different from what I anticipated. Many students were angry that we provided a forum for conservative viewpoints and others were astonished by the poll results. I became aware of the silent political divide in my school and realized how journalism can help mend that divide. I was only able to learn this by putting myself out there and talking with students. Being on the Echo allowed me to understand my classmates and my community better. “The Diversity of Thought” article is only one example of countless stories that sparked discussion in my community and helped me grow as a person.

As a journalist, I've had to consider the ethical considerations of a story. I learned the court cases regarding free speech and what constitutes as an ethical story. Being on Echo taught me how to report honestly and with integrity. I've learned how to portray people in a fair, honest, light. I've learned how to include multiple perspectives in my stories by approaching people from different viewpoints and backgrounds. This skill is important for high school students because it teaches students to be open-minded and treat people fairly.

At the end of each publication, cycle, the Echo staff comes together for late night. At late night the newspaper has roughly 6 hours to send the paper to the printer. At first this deadline loomed over my head. However, by my 3rd late night I was ready and handing in content before my deadline. As the year went on the staff as a whole became more efficient and productive. As high school students, learning how to meet deadlines and complete projects is a crucial skill. Furthermore, the content at the end of late night is well polished and checked for errors before being printed. Late night has taught me how to bring my best self to my homework and how to manage my time to meet my deadlines.

No matter how many times I’ve been told to manage my time it was only when I joined the paper that I truly became good at it. I have loved being on Echo and am thankful for the responsibility, lessons and friends it has given.