Four Years in Nearly 400 Words

Grisel Gonzalez
Editor-in-Chief
  I joined Journalism in September of freshman year. I was unsure whether I was going to stay for all four years, but I did. I stayed because of my love and passion for writing. However, I was extremely shy. I was the kind of shy that prevented me from raising my hand and participating in class. I could have never imagined myself as a leader. I did not think I had it in me. Journalism changed that. Interviewing people terrified me at first; I would rewrite my questions five times. My voice would shake, and I would never hold eye contact. I met people I never would have talked to. I listened to their stories. Slowly, I branched out of my comfort zone. 
  From September to now, this club changed me. Writing and publishing articles were rewarding. The most rewarding experience was noticing that I was leading and gaining confidence. I stayed not only for the amazing leadership skills I continued to gain, but also for my passion for English. I love the way words can make someone feel seen. I love learning about different people and their stories. I love being able to share my voice and other people’s voices through journalism and our newspaper. I love that this classroom took a shy freshman and gave her a voice. 
  Leaving Mrs. Wagner’s first hour journalism class is bittersweet. This classroom has been my safe place for the last four years. I am not ready to not have another article to write and publish next month. However, I am leaving with lessons I will carry with me forever: how to listen, how to take direction, and how to lead. To the staff: Thank you for trusting me as the Editor-in-Chief this year. I love you all, though I may not have expressed it as much as I would like to. Keep writing and keep thriving. I will miss every single one of you! To Mrs. Wagner: Thank you for being my favorite teacher for the last four years, and thank you for trusting me with the position of Editor-in-Chief. Thank you for seeing something in me before I saw it in myself. I will miss you the most! Finally, to Bonneville High School: Thank you for reading The Bonneville Buzz. 

​