Journalism holds power, and I have found my own through it. Not because of a title, a byline or the recognition that comes with seeing my name in print, but because of what journalism allows me to do: tell the truth, report facts and represent a community that deserves to be heard.
For me, journalism has never been about personal validation, but its impact. There are journalists who find joy in the work itself or in seeing their names published. I respect that, but what matters to me the most is the effect it has on others.
That impact shows up in many forms: mentoring a new writer unsure of their voice, editing a story until it accurately reflects its subject, or writing about overlooked communities. No matter the role, I measure my success not by what I produce, but by those I support along the way.
I always find it easier to see the good in others, not myself, and that perspective has shaped the kind of journalist I strive to be. I don’t write for myself, I write for those who need their stories told — for communities that deserve coverage, for student journalists finding their place in this field, just as I am. That is what makes this work meaningful.
As Editor-in-Chief of The Skyline View, my goal has been to help build a paper that people trust, one that readers feel proud to engage with, one that reflects the voices of our campus with integrity.
Looking at this final issue, I feel so much gratitude. Gratitude for staff who showed up, learned, and supported one another. Gratitude for readers who trusted us, for every person who allowed us to tell their story.
What I carry forward is not just the experience of leading a newsroom, but the understanding that journalism, at its best, is an act of service. It requires transparency and commitment to doing the work responsibly. Mistakes will happen — they always do. What matters is how we respond, remaining accountable and continuing to build trust with our audience.
As this final issue goes to print, I hope readers walk away not just informed, but reminded that ethical, responsible journalism still exists. Journalism has given me power; more importantly, it has given me happiness.
And for that, I am grateful.