Wars have been waged all through history over the same pressing issue: how things have always been and how things ought to be.
This year, this conflict has made its way into our staff’s beloved room 46.
With a new advisor, The Globe is changing. We have to. These changes are stressful, to say the least. It’s so much easier to collapse into the comfort of “that’s just how it’s done around here,” but this publication has time and time again encouraged change in the lives of others, I suppose it’s time to pay our dues.
Halfway through last year, our advisor left and our publication was left to fend for itself. Without the guidance of an adult, students had to take the wheel of a ship they didn’t know how to drive. We were forced to lead well above our stations and function by the true definition of “student run.” This was a difficult experience; a cold plunge into adulthood, which we would soon be entering, but in spite of this lack of structure, we continued to be the light.
This staff couldn’t be stopped. I watched my peers rise to the occasion and continue to write. Even when deadlines were pushed to the limit and conflicts arose, they wrote. They wrote stories which made people smile and laugh. They wrote stories which allowed people to think, and consider perspectives different from their own. Perhaps there were no awards, no national recognition, but they were making a difference. Whether it was encouraging people to try a new restaurant or investigate their racial biases, the power of journalism shone brighter than ever before.
Witnessing the hard work and dedication of my peers, in spite of a difficult circumstance, left me inspired. I began to realize the immense importance of journalism as an act, to the readers, but also to the writers themselves. Giving students an outlet to express their opinions in a world where the voices of young people are so often silenced is incredibly valuable.
For me, getting to write for The Globe has been an experience I didn’t know I needed. When I first joined my sophomore year, I never intended to be more than a reporter; however, by being in a space where the goal of writing shifted from getting the approval of my English teacher to making a difference in my community, I felt excited to write articles every month. Beyond writing, I have found joy in designing spreads for the magazine. I love creating the perfect pairing of visual elements to aid the purpose of a story. Knowing that my hard work is being showcased to an audience who is listening has meant so much to me these past two years.
When I found out I would have the privilege to lead this staff, I was elated. I still am. Even with every road block, every difficult conversation, every change which has to be made I have never been prouder to call myself Editor in Chief.
As changes ensue this year I thank you, dear reader, for opening up this magazine. I hope you like looking at the pictures and admiring the designs. I hope you read something inspiring, or funny, or fascinating. Despite all the changes, The Globe is back and will be here for you once a month in its full glossy print glory.
