Myah Lear
Q: How did your passion for journalism begin?
A: I didn’t really start off with journalism on its own, I had more of an interest in photography. I started taking a newspaper class when I was in ninth grade. When I started learning more about writing, I grew a passion for it over time and didn’t want to stop.
Q: Is there something valuable you’ve learned from journalism that you might not have learned anywhere else?
A: I think I learned a lot of things. The most valuable thing was probably how to work really well with the people around me because that’s something that’s important for any job I go into. Not even if it’s just journalism but working with the people around me.
Q: Where were you when you began journalism compared to where you are now? What has changed about you the most?
A: I definitely was not a very good writer when I started off. As time went on, and I started writing more stories, I got more feedback from Mrs. Vanish, and I feel like my skills grew in that aspect. Also, I was not the best photographer, and I didn’t have access to professional cameras—so I didn’t know how to use them. I’ve had a lot of practice and my skill set has really grown.
Q: Were there moments where you felt like giving up your position because you felt like you couldn’t handle it?
A: Actually, last year, I really debated quitting until I got the media manager position. Once I got that position, I realized I still really liked writing for the newspaper—even if I messed up sometimes or missed deadlines. I wanted to stick with it, and I knew my time on staff is valuable.
Q: What are the relationships like that you’ve formed throughout the years?
A: I’ve made some of my best friends on the staff. Being a community service worker was an advantage. I got to work well with every class, the two yearbook classes and the two newspaper classes. These people have become my own little family.
Q: What are your plans for after high school?
A: I am going to be attending Penn State Altoona for the first two years of college and moving up to Penn State main for my last two. I’m going to be pursuing a journalism degree.