My Unexpected Passion
Journalism is a passion of mine. It began with the journalism class I signed up for in high school.
I was in the eighth grade and attended an orientation that was meant for freshman elective sign-ups. The school had various clubs perform and when it was over, students could finally sign up for their preferred electives. I originally gravitated towards color guard because of their amazing performance and after signing up for it, I went around the gym to see what else was available. When I saw the journalism booth, I had no idea what it was, but I took a chance and signed up.
When I first started the journalism class, I was sure that I was not going to enjoy it. As the semester progressed, I found myself getting more involved with the class, and the passion I once had for color guard slowly began to dwindle. I was offered a position as a photographer for the journalism class and I immediately fell in love with it.
I spent the entirety of my high school career being a photographer for that journalism class. Taking photos of students I was unfamiliar with helped bring me out of my shell and I learned a variety of photography techniques such as what angles fit certain pictures the best. At first it was challenging, but soon I got the hang of it, which led to better quality pictures being taken.
When senior year came along, I was put in charge of the class’s camera as the photo leader. My position consisted of taking care of the camera, checking it out and making sure my team members went out to take the necessary photos needed for our every single one of our projects. I remember how much fun that was, and it soon became something I wanted to do for a living. That experience is what led me to pick journalism as my major when I finally entered college.
The first journalism class I took in college was much different than the one I took in high school, but it has still been an incredible experience.
I was so nervous because I did not know what to expect, especially because my writing is not the best. It was difficult at first and it is still difficult, but I would like to say my writing has improved. I have also had some chances to work on photojournalism, and I have loved it. I did some photo essays and I found those a lot easier to do than writing.
Along with helping me develop my writing skills, journalism has also contributed to helping me break out of my shell. Before journalism I never imagined I could go up to strangers and interview them for articles. Journalism has helped me flourish into a confident person. Especially the students in The Breeze, who have all been very kind and helpful when I asked for help. I appreciate all the staff in The Breeze for being patient with me and helping me improve my skills.