“As our editing staff stewards this publication, it is my goal that we be thoughtful when crafting and editing articles and encourage the staff writers to do the same.”
I wrote that in the first issue in the fall. Looking back on the 25 papers we’ve published since then, I can say with confidence that we have achieved that goal. We’ve sought to cover interesting, relevant and engaging stories for our readers—from pet lions to students’ adventures abroad to Chewbacca Mom—with high-caliber writing. And due to the staff’s consistent excellence each week, both the print and online Signal received third place at the ACMAs, a highly competitive contest of the state’s best journalists. What a joy this year has been!
The work
The Signal has taken up the lion’s share of my time—in the best way. Scheduling meetings, assigning stories, editing articles, solving problems, and finding engaging content to enhance readership have all been tasks of mine. I’ve never felt more in my zone. Though I’ve spent some late nights in the newsroom editing before each weekly printing date, the work has been worth it. The practical experience I’ve gained has been tremendously helpful in preparing me for my career, but the lessons I’ve learned about myself and working with people are invaluable.
The people
You can be doing what you love, but if you don’t love the people with whom or for whom you’re working, that can put a serious strain on your morale. Fortunately, that has not been the case for me.
I have been so thrilled with the staff this year. They have been dedicated, creative, thoughtful, intentional, helpful, positive, resourceful and, of course, great writers. I cannot thank them enough for their hard work.
Dr. Jeff Root, advisor to The Signal, is exactly the kind of person you want to work for. He’s allowed us to make the publication our own, but he has always been available to offer assistance and advice. His confidence in us has meant the world to me, and I’m so grateful for the mentors that he and his wife have been. Professor Eurich, advisor to the Online Signal, has been so supportive of our vision for the website, and I’ve appreciated her energy and encouragement. Our advisors are not intimidated by new ideas or change, they welcome it. They want each new group to build on the successes of those in years prior.
The challenges
“Hey, Barrett, my file crashed.”
“My interviewee hasn’t gotten back to me, and I’ve emailed them and texted them.”
“Hey, the event that my story was about got cancelled.”
I used to be afraid of the term “problem-solving.” In fact, when Dixon Land (our previous editor) told me that that was the biggest requirement of the editor, I was incredibly intimidated and did not feel up to the task (don’t tell the Roots). However, problem solving has now become a valuable skill in which I am confident. When things go wrong, you simply have to plow through and continue to think of creative solutions, because deadlines are deadlines.
The joys
My greatest joy in this job has been helping staff writers grow. Even subtle changes can make significant differences. See, I think writing is similar to carving an ice sculpture. The writer knows the story and what they want to say. By carefully chiseling away at the stone—i.e. thoughtful writing and meticulous editing—we can present that vision to the reader in the best way possible. What a fun process!
So thank you, advisors, for your encouragement. Thank you, staff, for your diligence. And thank you, readers, for your faithfulness. Working on The Signal has been a pleasure. Best of luck to the team next year, it’s time to pass the torch!
by Barrett Gay, Editor-in-Chief
