As I wrap up my final year at McDaniel, I’ve been thinking a lot about how my last four years have been spent. I’ve done a lot of learning, both inside the classrooms and out. I’ve made so many connections, friends who’ve taught me empathy, teachers who’ve taught me how to learn and a community who’s taught me resilience and responsibility. I’ve always felt lucky to be a part of a community that loves each other.. Before high school, I never really thought about how much the people around you shape your experience. The people that I’ve surrounded myself with the past four years, friends, teachers, counselors, they’ve all made McDaniel the place it is to me. 

Since this has been my first year joining the newspaper, I was unsure at first because I didn’t exactly know the procedures and how the cycle worked exactly. I found it really easy to get help from my peers with a special thanks to the editors and especially our Editor-in–Chief Aria, who I felt always worked hard to be kind and helpful to anyone at any moment. Being a part of the newspaper taught me a lot more than I expected. I learned how to use cameras and equipment, interview people, and be part of a team. This class felt like a really good experience of being a part of a workforce and  I’ll use the skills I’ve learned for the rest of my life. 

One of the biggest things I got out of the newspaper this year was learning how to interview someone. I always got nervous talking to people I didn’t know and talking to people really pushed me out of my comfort zone. Having to think quickly on my feet was a really good experience for future jobs and everyday social interactions. Even though I only joined for one year, I’m really glad I did because it gave me fun memories and experiences I wouldn’t have otherwise.