Being on the newspaper staff has changed my view on collaboration as well as the idea of being a part of a team. Although I was only a part of the staff for two years, I have made very valuable connections that I will carry with me through college and beyond. 

   Since my freshman year, I have felt like an outsider, and I wanted so badly to find a place within school where I felt safe and included. I joined the newspaper staff my junior year and at first, it was a difficult transition. I continued to feel isolated, but after a few months, I started to open up to my peers; that’s when I truly allowed collaboration to happen. Communication is very important in this class because of quick deadlines and needing to work together with everyone in the class for the paper to be successful. Although I still might feel like an outsider with my peers, I have met wonderful people who have brought me to where I am today.

   In the fall, I plan to study Health Sciences at the University of Missouri. Ever since freshman year, I thought I would be going out of state for college, but due to financial reasons, I chose to stay in state for my undergraduate degree. After medical school, I will work to become a Radiologist through residency and fellowships. 

   Being in newspaper has shown me the power of working together as one solid unit. I see it with my friends, family and other relationships. This staff has challenged me in ways I didn’t know were possible, but I am truly grateful for it. I will continue to carry the importance of collaboration and teamwork through my everyday life.