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The knowledge you possess is the base of every argument, opinion, or idea. This was a value my parents instilled in my sisters and I at a young age as they left the comfort of their life in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico to pursue better opportunities for their three daughters in El Paso.
Now more than ever, I pride myself in carrying this value with me as I step into the role of editor-in-chief at The Prospector.
Although I still have many things to learn, I’ve always considered myself an individual prepared to take on opportunities meant to challenge my knowledge and nurture my leadership skills. This year, the opportunity has presented itself through the role of managing a biweekly newspaper, leading a group of more than 20 talented individuals and producing accurate news at a time when the world needs it the most.
During my time at The Prospector I have contributed to its coverage as a multimedia journalist and copy editor. Through these roles I have learned more than just the rules of journalism.
I learned the power of unity by being at the forefront of the paper’s coverage of the Cielo Vista Walmart mass shooting. This included Khalid’s “A Night for Sun City” concert, the store’s reopening, the unveiling of the grand candela in honor of the 23 victims and the court trials that followed.
I learned the power and value of one’s voice by covering Black Lives Matter related protests and the 2020 presidential election, including Dr. Jill Biden’s visit to El Paso.
Above all, I’ve learned true strength by covering tragedies, frustrations and drastic changes brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.
These lessons have been fueled by the opportunity to write feature stories for UTEP’s College of Engineering over the past year and a half and publish stories for news outlets like KTEP, KTSM News, KERA News and Our Border Life. Here, I was mentored by notable journalists who have only increased my eagerness to join the field after graduation.
I plan on carrying these lessons with me as the paper produces pieces that compete with other publications, this includes monitoring the University’s COVID-19 vaccine program and its future plans to fully welcome students back to campus.
I also look forward to expanding our multimedia coverage, as UTEP’s journalism talent is beginning to be recognized by national news media companies.
Like The Prospector’s previous editor-in-chief, the brilliant Bryan Mena, I would not have come this far if it weren’t for the Terry Foundation, which has given me long lasting friendships and a full ride scholarship to fund my studies at UTEP.
On behalf of everyone working at The Prospector, I would like to thank Bryan, Valeria Olivares and the various skillful editor-in-chiefs that came before me. Your support for our newsroom to this day is something I admire and appreciate as a student journalist.
Finally, to our readers, although this year presents itself with renewed opportunities and beginnings, I hope you continue prioritizing your health and the well being of others.
I invite you to send your arguments, opinions, and ideas our way, knowing they will be valued.
Anahy Diaz may be reached at [email protected]; @by_anahydiaz on Twitter.
