Mariana Fikse shares reasoning behind joining journalism

With the advancement of social media and technology, it is easy to believe the voices of students are heard more now than ever. However, others look for a way to rise above the noise and make an effort to bring important issues to light. Journalism provides the opportunities for students to voice events and opinions that are important to them.

Scholastic Journalism Week is encouraging students across the nation to find their voice, Feb. 19-23. The theme of the week, ‘Student Voice, Student Choice’, is fitting for students today who are fighting to make their opinions heard.

After the horrific shooting in Florida last week, students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School decided to take action. Teenagers banned together to confront lawmakers on issues such as gun control, which some believe could have prevented the tragedy. The nation continues to watch as this group of high schoolers, brought together by something unimaginable, fight to make their voices heard.

Other students are conducting student walk outs in order to peacefully protest gun violence in America. Despite warnings from schools threatening to punish students who walk out of class, teenagers are determined to make a statement.

Not all cases of trying to be heard turn out to be peaceful, as seen in the recent protests against President Trump’s inauguration. In the late summer of 2017, anti-Trump protesters chased and beat Trump supporters, inciting multiple arrests. If someone must resort to violence in order to feel as though their voice is heard, others will turn away from them and not be open to changing their ideas.

Outlets, such as social media, are beginning to become a place where people argue about issues with biased and misinformed information, rather than peacefully discussing matters by using valid arguments. This results in both sides failing to see the legitimate problems their opponents are trying to present.

Even if you don’t plan on being a journalist after high school, being on the staff will teach you how to use your voice in a way that will reach others. Journalism teaches students how to build an argument by using facts, not opinions, as well as social and interview skills that will be used in almost any profession. — Mariana Fikse

Journalism teaches students to confront the facts. When a student has an informed voice, others will be open to hear what they have to say.

Being on the journalism staff also gives students opportunities they likely wouldn’t have elsewhere. Personally, I believe The Feather has contributed to my most memorable moments in high school, such as meeting former president of Mexico Vicente Fox, interviewing World War II veterans Phillip Starr and George Poplin, as well as traveling to New York City with fellow staff members.

Before joining journalism, I wouldn’t dare to speak to, much less interview, a stranger or notable figure such as Vicente Fox. However, three years of journalism helped me develop practical skills such as conducting an interview, as well as the ability to write articles that provide both insightful and unbiased information.

It’s time for society to stand behind the voices of students. I encourage high schoolers to join publications, not just for the social aspect or for the trip the team makes to New York, but for the life lessons and skills you will learn while on staff.

Even if you don’t plan on being a journalist after high school, being on the staff will teach you how to use your voice in a way that will reach others. Journalism teaches students how to build an argument by using facts, not opinions, as well as social and interview skills that will be used in almost any profession.

If you are interested in journalism, contact Greg Stobbe or Kori Friesen for more information.

For more columns read, COLUMN: Journalism builds professionalism, student portfolios and COLUMN: Golden Knights’ mindset impresses Alexander Rurik. 

This author can be reached via twitter @mariana_fikse and via email: Mariana Fikse.