In 2023 I decided to try something that for many years I thought I wasn't capable of doing: higher education. At Santa Monica College, I found a new version of myself. I could have never imagined I would graduate with high honors, be part of an honor society, or let alone, be out in the field covering breaking news stories.
SMC is a special place where we are given an environment to truly get to know people from all kinds of backgrounds and get a better understanding of the world around us. I really enjoyed interviewing students and staff and highlighting their talents, passions, and journeys. I feel like I am leaving SMC with a deeper purpose and love for journalism. The people I met while at SMC are born leaders, and I'm proud to have been allowed the opportunity to get to know them and share many of their stories.
SMC really gave me a foundation to build my career upon. Transferring I already have a full portfolio of published work, that I don't think many students at four-year colleges even have.
Thank you to journalism professor Sharyn Obsatz, who opened many doors for me while at SMC and was always encouraging, supportive, and genuinely cares about her students. She is a true light and blessing to SMC.