In the spring of 2021, I came across an Instagram post highlighting that applications were open for the next semester of Newspaper and Cougar TV. I had always been interested in studying journalism, so I was excited about potentially taking Newspaper. However, throughout most of my life, I have really struggled with fear, specifically a fear of rejection. So in that moment, everything in me told me that I should just not apply and not face the embarrassment of being rejected. A couple days later, a friend of mine reached out and told me she was applying and encouraged me to apply, too. After a lot of poking and prodding from my friend, I finally put in an application, fully expecting that I would be rejected.

Within a week, the Newspaper teacher reached out to me to schedule an interview. I vividly remember picking the latest interview slot available, to give myself more time to “prepare,” which honestly meant sitting there stressing. When it came time for my interview, I was so nervous. I could feel my heart beating through my chest, and I was struggling to breathe. I joined the interview on Google Meet, and the call began. For the first few minutes I was so tense and stressed, but as time went on, the Newspaper teacher made me feel more comfortable, and I was able to calm myself down. The interview finished, and I immediately turned to overthinking everything I had said. I thought to myself that I sounded stupid and was going to get rejected because I had messed up so badly. I kicked myself for every answer I gave, replaying the interview in my head. I got an email the next day that I had been accepted into Newspaper and was immediately filled with relief and excitement. I couldn’t wait to take the class.

I started Newspaper I the next semester, at the beginning of my junior year. It very quickly became my favorite class. I loved the students in the class, the teacher, and all the fun things we got to do. The semester flew by, and next thing I knew, it was over. The next semester began with my new classes, and I found myself missing Newspaper. After a couple days of the new semester, I dropped one of my other electives and ended up in Newspaper again for that semester. Now, here I am, three semesters and nineteen articles later, finishing my last semester of Newspaper. 

Now, why do I tell you all this? The answer is simple: leaving my legacy behind in Newspaper, I want to be a lesson to students. Do not let your fear stop you from chasing your dreams. If I had let my fear stop me from applying to Newspaper, I would not be here. I made many great memories and friendships in this class and have become a better writer in many ways. I will forever be grateful for the time I spent here in room 2315.