My College Journey
In the spring of 2022, I graduated from a class of roughly 80 people in a small town in rural Kentucky. More than half of my graduating class were going straight into the trades, while the rest of us decided to brave the unknown of college.

NKU was an easy choice; my older siblings went there, my mother worked there and I could commute. That was the easy decision; the hardest decision I couldn’t seem to pin down was my major.

I started college undecided, but in the second semester of my freshman year, I became a mechanical and manufacturing engineering major. I learned different welding styles, sheet metal fabrication and how to produce shapes of molten aluminum out of a sand cast. This class was some of the most fun I’ve ever had in college, but after three hours of industrial electricity and the intimidating class list, including thermodynamics and metrology, I decided to drop some engineering classes and pick up English courses instead.

Switching from mechanical engineering to English was a big change, but the best decision I could’ve made. I had been reading my entire life and always enjoyed writing, but I considered it a hobby rather than a career path. After some guidance from advisors and professors, they showed me where an English degree could take me.

With a focus in writing studies, I’ve gathered many different writing skills, including business, technical and creative. However, there was still one facet of writing I hadn’t explored yet, journalism.

In December of 2024, I was scrolling on Instagram when a post from Jillian Kohls, former Managing Editor, came on my feed with a link to apply to The Northerner. In my junior year of college, I still hadn’t joined any clubs or groups on campus. I felt disconnected, like I wasn’t getting the college experience everyone promised me. Trusting Jill’s enthusiasm, I took a chance and applied.

Now, a year later, my only regret is not joining sooner. I can’t express the sheer pride and appreciation I feel for the group I’ve gotten the pleasure to work with. These are some of the most talented, driven people I’ve ever met who are truly doing it for the love of the game.

My Dedications
To Henry, our fearless Editor-In-Chief. I’ve never worked with someone so understanding and trusting. You were always willing to listen to any crazy idea I had or story I pitched. You not only take our ideas, but also make sure we are given the resources to fulfill them. No matter where you go, I can’t imagine you being anything less than a leader.

To Erin, your friendship and support are so important to me. When Ella wasn’t able to come to meetings, you didn’t mind hearing my story ideas and helping me brainstorm. I loved participating in your videos and getting to watch you work. I admire how you create a relaxing environment for anyone anxious about being on camera, including myself.

To Jakob, there is truly no one out here doing it like you. You’ve churned out more stories than I’ll probably ever see in my life, and have such a natural talent for journalism. I have no doubt your infectious smile and sunny personality will end up on the sidelines someday. You have become a true friend and supporter. Even though you were up, seemingly all hours of the day, writing about three-pointers and home runs, you still made time to read my stories and offer feedback.

To Ella, my arts and life girl. You and I have been in this together from the beginning. When I first started, you were there to show me the ropes and give advice. I’ve loved collaborating with you on so many projects, including our “Sunrise on the Reaping” book review and the Saddle Up multimedia project for “Oklahoma!” I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t painfully envious of your creativity, talent and artistic vision. Let your passions drive you. Although I’ll get major FOMO next semester, I’ll still be reading everything you publish.

Although I’ve worked the closest with these people, everyone at The Northerner has made an impact on my life that I’ll carry with me forever.

My Contribution
With 20+ submissions, I couldn’t be prouder of myself. I never thought hundreds of people would be reading my work, but here we are. I’ve been able to publish silly, fun projects like my opinion on summer films and cartoons. I’ve also gotten to explore deeper stories, including the legacy of the late President Votruba and the selfless service from sororities on campus.

Because of The Northerner, I’ve conducted interviews, both formal and random, perused archives and practiced photography. I’ve pushed myself outside of my comfort zone and done things I wouldn’t have otherwise.

I’m not sure where I’m going after college, but I’m searching for a career that will satisfy my creative mind and exercise my writing abilities. In my future endeavors, I now have something to show for all of my hard work and endless stories to go along with it.

I joined The Northerner because I want to experience everything, all the time. I want to read every book, watch every movie and talk to as many people as I can. I’ve been given the opportunity to do just that.

I wouldn’t be a true English major if I didn’t end this with one of my favorite quotes. As Joan Didion said, “Every day is all there is.”