Column: Before I mosey off into the sunset, one last thing…

If I was being completely honest, I mean, we’re talking full disclosure here; then I would have to tell you that I almost threw away my experience at The Voice over a parking space. More specifically, it was the lack of a parking space that almost snuffed out my burgeoning journalism career, before I buried my first lede, or fumbled through my first interview. What a clumsy misstep this would have been, because overcoming that first obstacle, that first story, earned me a position at the Washtenaw Voice, and what has been my most valuable experience at WCC.

 It was the first assignment for my intro to journalism class, and I decided to cover a local advocacy group’s movie night in Frog Island Park in Ypsilanti. I knew nothing about the craft of journalism; I didn’t know how to write a good lede, conduct an interview, or how to use photos to enrich a story. I was greener than the grass the moviegoers had splayed their blankets and folding chairs across.

 I was scared, there’s no denying it. The park was a short drive from my apartment which meant there wasn’t much time to talk myself out of it, but when I arrived, the park was alive with music and dancing and a lot more people than I’d anticipated. There were multiple events going on that night, and the parking lot was packed. Cars were parked one after the overflowing into nearby Depot Town. 

 “Forget it,” I told myself as I drove back and forth trying to find a spot. “I’ll just make something up. Besides, I have to pee so bad.” 

 I always seem to have to use the bathroom when I’m washed through with fear. My brain has no problem shutting down, but my bladder is always ready, willing, and able. 

 I made the quick drive home but managed to talk myself out of quitting. I walked back to the park and sheepishly found an organizer who was busy setting up, which any journalist will tell you is the best time to ask for an interview.

 I stuttered through an introduction and, lucky for me, the woman was happy to talk. I asked questions I prepared from a little notebook and scribbled her answers as fast as I could. When the impromptu interview was over, I walked home with, first, a sense of relief, but also a feeling of pride. 

 Two feelings that were short lived once I realized I forgot to take pictures and had to go back.

The Washtenaw Voice

That first story taught me a lot about myself, but also that people are capable of amazing feats and have such rich lives, and I can be of service by telling their stories. 

I found the Washtenaw Voice through that first journalism class and joining the team has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’ve covered stories on campus security, community issues, and political rallies. I’ve met all kinds of interesting people, and traveled from our capitol in Lansing, to the nation’s in Washington D.C. 

Working with The Voice team the last two semesters has been an honor. Our staff is graced by a wonderful adviser, Judy McGovern, whose knowledge of the craft and unwavering patience is something every student should take advantage of. Putting stories together with our talented graphic designers, photographers, and websmiths has been a valuable learning experience; and I will sorely miss molding stories with my editor, RJ, and the frantic blitz of print week. 

 I want to strongly encourage WCC students to participate in The Voice, whether as a scholarship student or contributor. There are so many opportunities here for students from every program. The Voice isn’t just for the wanna-be Woodwards and Bernsteins. If you’re interested in photography, graphic design, illustration, web design, there’s something here for you. Or, if there’s a story you think people should know about, then The Voice needs to hear from you. 

I want to express my deepest gratitude to WCC and The Washtenaw Voice 

 Thank you

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