Danielle Bardelang

Q: How did your passion for journalism begin?

A: So, my mom is actually an author. I started writing when I was in eighth grade, and I won an essay contest. My teacher was like, ‘you’re gonna join the newspaper,’ so I joined and stuck with it.

Q: Is there something valuable you’ve learned from journalism that you might not have learned anywhere else?

A: There are basic things like teamwork and responsibility. But, the writing skills, development of photography and time management are things I don’t think I would learn anywhere else.

Q: Where were you when you began journalism compared to where you are now? What has changed about you the most?

A: The biggest thing is that I’ve been humbled a lot, which could be a good or bad thing. But, my writing has changed a lot and my photography has improved. 

Q: Were there moments where you felt like giving up your position because you felt like you couldn’t handle it?

A: I feel like giving up almost every day. But I have to tell myself, ‘I got the position because I earned it.’

Q: What are the relationships like that you’ve formed throughout the years?

A: Some were harsh, but others were unbreakable. I’ve made my best friends through journalism.

Q: What are your plans after high school?

A: I’m taking a gap year and doing an internship with a local youth group. Then, I’ll be going to Liberty University in Virginia to study youth ministry and minor in photography.