The Argonaut took me in early October of last year. I was an undecided major with an interest in writing who needed direction. My friend brought me into a meeting one boring Sunday afternoon and I’ve been coming back ever since.
Sadly, the friend stopped attending to focus on her next acquired hobby, while I picked up mine — journalism.
Freshman year was confusing, as any other student would put it. Away from friends and family and out on your own, it’s a time to “find yourself.”
I didn’t even know what I was finding, as going with the flow wasn’t my thing either. Clubs didn’t pique my interest and I was only involved in marching band, something I carried over by habit from high school.
I have always had an interest in writing — it was an enjoyable outlet for self-expression. Finding The Argonaut felt natural to me, and it felt crazy I could be paid to do something I love.
I went from trying to find a source to fill extra time to being a paid writer.
Life and opinion were welcoming, both to my writing and myself. Yet, there was still much progress to be made. Without a doubt, writing articles each week for a year has improved the composition of my writing. My writing style is completely different than where I started. AP Style is difficult to transition into from MLA formatting.
Writing feels great and has been an outlet for creative expression. Changing my major to psychology, my degree doesn’t allow creative expression alongside research. An interest in something the polar opposite of my degree and future job search turns heads when I tell them about my passion for writing.
Finding your beat can be challenging. I still struggle to decide what I enjoy most and what section I want to continue writing for. Whether it’s arts and culture, Moscow music or worldly events, I am still on a path toward discovering my beat.
Second-year writing at The Argonaut has been even more rewarding with new opportunities around each corner. I would have never seen myself cover a drag show, follow artists at Modest Music Fest or photograph art around the community. I hope more situations like these continue to challenge me.
Work is constantly challenging and shaping my writing, not letting any complacency appear.
I am lucky to find my passion — especially in a place where everyone is constantly searching. Finding a space with welcoming people and work has been so rewarding. Finding our niche can be complicated, but life will find a way to lead if our ambitions are clear.
Emily Pearce can be reached at [email protected]