Ever since I was able to read, I’d challenge myself with big, fat books from the library even though I couldn’t understand most words. When I was eight or nine years old, I discovered the most beautiful, relatable, funny, honest, and amazing thing ever to exist in the history of humanity–GRAPHIC NOVELS! I found Raina Telgemeier when little me felt out of place with other kids. Telgemeier quickly assured me I was not. My first best friend and I would share one of her books, her two hands on one side, and my own on the other, arguing that the other read too fast and to be more careful with the cherished, colorful pages. Raina Telgemeier’s illustrations and writing shaped who I grew up to be, as well as gave life to a scorching passion for writing and wanting to pursue a similar career. I was so ecstatic when I found out that Joliet Central offered a Journalism class. A purpose to write. A helping hand to possibly pursue a career that could let me do that I love!

While I’m not sure what exactly I want yet for a career, I do know that it’s in the field of writing. Writing has been there for me in my fifth-grade diary entries, my cellphone’s notes app, and a bathroom stall (jokes) when no one else has. I used to write plays, musicals, books, poems, letters, novellas, and anything and everything I could get my hands on when I was a kid and even now,! High school isn’t exactly fun for everyone (anyone), especially me, but I find the school’s journalism as a reason to keep writing and work hard for what I want. Without the journalism class and the fortunate, fortunate, FORTUNATE opportunity to become a part of the editing team, I believe my passion’s fire would be a feeble, little spark.