As a cub reporter, I have learned many things that I can apply to future BARK experiences and to my broader life. I know some people who walked into the BARK classroom and immediately saw a future there. However, I walked in with countless questions, not knowing exactly what I wanted to write about, or if I'd be any good at journalism. I think it took until my first story attempt, which was also my first failure, for me to gain a true appreciation for journalism. I was attempting to create a video story about cheer, and realized my footage was too shaky. That was also the last game of the season, so I didn't have a chance to shoot the footage again. However, instead of being discouraged, this experience just made me more proud of my future accomplishments.

Something I love about journalism is getting to hear about lived experiences. Right now, I'm working on a video about incarcerated people and the media centers inside prisons. Getting to hear how journalism has inspired them, and helped them feel more remorse, humanity, and make connections, has made me appreciate this opportunity even more. It's also just been amazing to hear perspectives from people from all walks of life. 

Most importantly, the reason that journalism has become a passion of mine is because of its role in helping other people share their stories with the broader community. I think everyone deserves to have the opportunity to share their experience and words with the world, and the world deserves to hear what people have to say. That's why I've worked with nonprofits like Back to the Start, which helps incarcerated people share their voices, and why I ran for TUHSD board representative, so I can represent our school and make sure everyone is heard. When I started nonfiction, I thought I would just be writing about news and current events, however, I never predicted the extent to which journalism can help individuals by simply sharing their true stories.  Journalism, along with these other experiences, has inspired me to work towards a career in advocacy or politics where I can continue helping others in this way.

There are many problems in our world, and we can't underestimate the potential impact of facts, voices, and stories on our society. This is both exciting because of the potential for positive change and scary because maybe the outcome isn't what you want or were expecting. But the real purpose of journalism is to share the truth and let the public make their own opinions, which is what I strive to do every time I interview someone, make an edit, or sit down to write an article. Combined with the feeling of accomplishment that is only emphasized by my failures, these are the reasons why I love journalism.