The memory is vivid: There I was, 5 years old, sitting on the reclining couch in my grandparents’ living room when my grandfather turned on the news. To my surprise, I saw my mom.

There she was, doing her thing—on television. Wow. I mean, I suppose I knew she was a journalist, but seeing her on TV was a turning point, and since that day, it became crystal clear that reporting is not only in my blood but also my calling.

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Journalism has always been my path, and I’ve worked to refine my skills since I started on a grade school newspaper. I thrive in fast-paced newsrooms, balancing editing, writing, designing, and producing social media content alongside varsity sports and other activities. Although managing my workload and finding balance hasn’t been easy, my passion for journalism keeps me motivated.

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In my junior year, I wrote about the school shooting at my high school a decade earlier, and it was the first story I wrote that made me feel like a true journalist.

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Interviewing staff who survived the tragedy shaped my understanding of journalism. Listening to their stories of courage and heartbreak, I realized the immense responsibility I held. A district counselor explained the long-lasting effects of trauma, and teachers shared efforts to rebuild while still haunted by the past. Honoring Claire Davis, who was just 17 years old when her life was taken, while being mindful of triggers for survivors, taught me about handling sensitive topics. It also became a lesson in advocating for my First Amendment rights when faced with administrative pushback.

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The experience reinforced journalism’s power to inform, heal and hold institutions accountable. It showed me that the stories that matter most are often the hardest to tell, requiring empathy, accuracy and persistence. These challenges fuel my passion for reporting and push me to continually improve as a journalist.

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Writing this feature deepened my appreciation for storytelling's community impact. And it reminded me why I am drawn to writing—from exploring complex themes in English classes to journalism's commitment to uncovering truths. Yes, my family's journalism background has inspired me, but experiences like this solidify my desire to pursue this path.

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Journalism is more than just a career choice for me—it’s a responsibility, a privilege and a calling that I embrace wholeheartedly. From that first moment on my grandparents’ couch to navigating investigative storytelling, I have come to understand the profound impact of strong, ethical journalism.

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As I enter college, I take pride in continuing my family’s legacy as a fourth-generation journalism major. In an era where media consumption constantly evolves, I am excited by the challenge of adapting to new storytelling formats, engaging diverse audiences and upholding truth and integrity. The ever-changing landscape of journalism presents endless opportunities to grow and innovate, and I can’t wait to develop my skills to push the field forward.