“It feels like we’re swimming upstream, it feels like we’re stuck in between a rock and a hard place. We’ve been through the heartaches and lived through the darkest days. If you and I made it this far, well then hey, we can make it all the way.” — Will.I.Am, “It’s a New Day”
Yesterday, I was honored with the June Anderson Almquist Memorial Scholarship by the Society of Professional Journalists. At this award ceremony, I was further honored with the joy of meeting thriving professionals in the journalism industry.
As the ceremony proceeded, I fell into a mode of observation. I was no longer nervous to be acknowledged, but completely consumed in observing the people around me. Everyone was so happy, so assured of their purpose and role at the ceremony. Award winners were not only gracious, but almost radiated a sense of reassurance. The speakers enveloped the audience with words of not just wisdom, but a pledge of sorts — a promise for a bright future.
Not one face in the crowd looked defeated by the current status of the industry. Instead, I was invited into conversations about the exciting transformations to come, the things that I, as a student, am helping create. Just being in that room was like taking an energy shot.
I was so used to hearing people complain, people worry, but here, there was none of that. Yes, there was some reminiscing and some sad reflection, but as recipients claimed their awards, they walked off with a little more swagger in their step — a declaration to the crowd to prepare themselves for more to come.
Even though I am only a second-year student, not even sure of where I will be upon graduation, I completely embodied this confidence and excitement that radiated around me. I even sat up a little straighter, walked a little lighter, and I definitely left that ceremony with the promise to myself that I will see those people again, hopefully walking in the paths that they are currently working so hard to pave for all budding journalists.
The skies are clearing, and a new generation of journalism is to come. This is my written declaration that I will not only ride along its new tides, but create my own mark on its blank canvas.
