I’ve known from a very young age that I wanted to be a journalist when I grew up. While it may sound like an exaggeration to some, it’s the truth. I’m not saying that at the age of seven I understood the concept of journalism, as not many children would. What I did know, however, was that I loved photographing my mom’s garden and anything else that caught my eye. Eventually, I learned to write, and it became my second passion.

It wasn’t until my sophomore year of high school that I was introduced to what it meant to be a journalist. I was lucky enough to fall into a pathway that allowed me to take journalism/yearbook classes early in my high school career. After a few weeks in Ms. Rivera’s class, I decided what my major would be. Her dedication to the craft and ensuring that her students understood the good and bad side of journalism is what inspired me to learn how to be an honest journalist. 

Without Ms. Rivera’s class and the support of my family, I would never have had the courage to apply for The Prospector last spring. My first assignment was the most nerve-racking, but ultimately the most rewarding. I had several doubts about whether I had made the right decision or whether my work was worthy of publication. However, the doubts quickly dissipated once I got to writing.

A semester and 12 stories later, and I am the newest web and copy editor. The position comes with even more fears, doubts and stress, but I remind myself that I’m still learning and growing each day.

As web editor, I hope to expand my knowledge beyond the basics of writing and photography, so that I can become a well-rounded individual. Additionally, I aim to use my knowledge to help new journalists be more confident in themselves and in the work they create while at The Prospector.

Alyda Muela is the web editor and may be reached at [email protected].