I recall registering for Joliet Central and being asked what electives I wanted to take. The options were limited but as soon as I saw “Multimedia Journalism & Writing” as one of the options, I immediately chose it. Writing has always been a relevant part of my identity so when I first walked into the class, I was very excited to have a class dedicated to my favorite hobby finally. The class is stress-free and the assignments were easy and fun. One of our assignments was to edit a purposely informal article. I thought it was just an ordinary assignment that Mr. Martz gave us to pass the time and to give us a grade. Hence, I just edited and put effort into it without knowing that that effort would pay off and gain me an opportunity to become an editor. I have yet to experience much of the editing position but from what I have experienced so far, I know that I will have a wonderful time. 

As I said, writing has always been an important part of my life and my favorite hobby. I have written short stories, novellas, poems, analyses, and ideas on different topics, and more but have always been kept private until I joined Journalism. Besides writing, I also enjoy other things, like reading. I have read a variety of genres and books but my favorite genres are young adult and realistic fiction and my favorite book is “Rumble Fish” by S.E. Hinton. It is a short read but it contains such a deep meaning. I also like doodling and drawing cartoons while listening to music. I listen to bands and artists like Arctic Monkeys, TV Girl, Mötley Crüe, Ghost, Slipknot, Pierce The Veil, Type O Negative, Mareux, and more. I also love snakes, cats, and hyenas. 

Last year, as a freshman, the title sounded scary and stressful and I was considering turning it down because I thought it would be too challenging and out of my comfort zone but I am glad I took it. I rarely try new things and this is a giant step out of my comfort zone but thanks to my literacy teacher’s encouragement and support, I could accept and do something I never thought I would do.