Sanford Freshman Participates in WDEL Student Journalist Event

English Instructor John Fritz, who has a passion for media and journalism, helped coordinate Daniels’ involvement with the program, which included 17 representatives from a variety of local high schools. “I was happy to volunteer,” explained Daniels, “because I have started developing an interest in understanding the wealth of information available about current events, both worldwide and locally. I wanted to be able to participate in informed discussions, and communication and journalism were paths to help me achieve that goal. My parents have been instrumental in helping me learn about and discuss current events, and this seemed like another opportunity to share my opinions.”

Student Journalist Night, an annual on-air program, was hosted by Allan Loudell on April 29th. Participation required patience and careful listening, as well as articulate conversation. While it was a roundtable type of discussion, there were only two microphones for the entire group, so the participants had to take turns sharing “air time.” Daniels shared: “I had an amazing experience at WDEL. I really appreciated the opportunity to join other students journalists and being provided with a public forum in which to voice our opinions and stances on current topics that affect us a community.” The student conversations included such current events topics as: gun control, the Korean discussions, the Starbucks incident in Philadelphia, the use of social media, and teacher salaries.

Daniels has become increasingly aware of the power of how journalism and communication shape an understanding of world events, and she has been active in developing her skills in those areas. She credits Sanford’s literary magazine INSCAPE and Fritz’s Student Media elective as outlets for students who are interested in media and journalism. She is looking forward to participating in the Student Media class when her schedule allows. “I plan to take advantage of every opportunity that Sanford offers as I pursue my passion for world events, communication, and journalism,” concluded Daniels.

Congratulations to Melissa for representing Sanford and sharing her skills on WDEL.