When I signed up for Nonfiction I thought the class would just teach me how to write essays or maybe tell a few personal stories. Instead, it introduced me to journalism: how to ask the right questions, chase facts, and write with clarity and purpose.

At first, journalism felt intimidating. Interviews were awkward, leads were hard to write, and I wasn’t sure I was cut out for it. But I pushed through the nerves. I learned how to listen carefully, research deeply, and revise with intention. Each assignment became a chance to get better, not just at writing, but at thinking like a journalist.

I experienced one of my biggest challenges when writing the story “From Redwood to Ribs: How Damon Stainbrook Built Pig In A Pickle.” Throughout the story I had interviews planned with employees, but people canceled or didn't show up, which forced me to switch course, and interview students, as opposed to Pig In A Pickle employees. Though this presented a challenge, it taught me the importance of being adaptive and moving quickly. 

My first year in Nonfiction shaped the way I see the world and my place in it. It taught me to be curious, to care about what’s happening around me, and to use my voice to highlight stories that matter—especially in our own Redwood community.

But it’s the experiences outside the classroom that give me perspective. One of the most meaningful is volunteering for PALS, a camp that pairs kids with and without Down syndrome. For one week I room with a girl my age and we do everything together. It’s moving and rewarding, and has taught me how powerful compassion and kindness are in every part of life. I also participate in Youth Transforming Justice, an organization that builds restorative justice programs for young people in Marin through peer-driven solutions. Through that work, I’ve learned the importance of listening deeply and treating everyone with fairness and respect. I also find strength in nature. Every summer I go backpacking. These trips shape my work ethic and teach me what it means to stay committed—especially if things don’t go according to plan. 

I’m excited to keep growing, keep writing, and contribute to the powerful storytelling that makes our school paper so important.

Leadership 

Even though I didn’t hold an official leadership title during my Nonfiction class, I often found myself stepping into leadership roles during group projects. Whether we were developing story ideas, peer-editing drafts, or planning a presentation, I naturally took initiative to keep things organized and moving forward.