This week in the Independent Study and Mentorship Program I continued preparation for the showcase.
In order to accomplish this, I updated my portfolio. There have been several assessments I had not yet completed or were not in the binder yet. I also gathered more supplies for my display board to complete the look.
On top of this I continued the process of looking for professionals to possibly interview and mentor with. It has been difficult to find investigative journalists willing and able to meet with me in the Dallas area, particularly females.
I am getting to the point in the program that I will soon need to choose a mentor. Typically, the first semester is set aside for interviews and research and the second semester is for the actual mentorship. Since we are nearing the second semester, I will soon need to pick someone to work with for the rest of the year. I am excited for this part of the program because I absolutely loved it last year. This is when I will truly be able to dive in deep into investigative journalism and see what it is like to work in the field. I am hoping that for my final product I might be able to actually go on the air with which ever station I mentor with.
Saturday, December 27, 2014
Monday, December 8, 2014
Week 14
This week in ISM I completed my Original Work Proposal, had my showcase invitations printed and distributed, completed my display board, and had an interview with a female investigative journalist from The Dallas Morning News.
The Original Work is the second biggest assignment in ISM. It is a way to provide information or research on your topic and make a difference in society in the process. For my Original Work, I am going to complete a research/investigative article on the Ebola crisis in Dallas covering why the problem became so dramatic and how Dallas could have handled the situation more competently. Hopefully I will be able to have my article published in The Dallas Morning News.
My interview at The Dallas Morning News was an incredible experience. It was the first time I was able to interview a female investigative journalist, and hearing her unique perspective on the field and how she got there was amazing.
I also completed my display board this week. The board will be on display at the Research Showcase and Final Presentation Night. It is a great way to grab the attention of attendees and start in depth conversations about investigative journalism.
My display board
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Week 13
This week in ISM, we went on a field trip to the University of North Texas. I also created an invitation for the Independent Study and Mentorship Winter Showcase, made a guest list, and typed two assessments.
The field trip to the University of North Texas was an incredible opportunity. I was able to talk with three journalism professors, learning about what it looks like to study journalism at the collegiate level. I observed introductory and advanced classes in Visual Communication and had one-on-one discussions with three different professors. The experience taught me that so much more goes into every little part of film making and reporting than meets the eye. Journalism students also gave me pieces of advice, including the facts that you should never take some one's word as truth, if you give up easily you should choose a different profession, and improvisation becomes your life.
I also completed two assessments this week. One was the interview assessment covering my time with Mr. Moffeit last week. The other one detailed my day at the University of North Texas.
I am now hoping to complete one or two more interviews, hopefully with a female investigative journalist. By the end of the semester I will have picked a mentor.
The field trip to the University of North Texas was an incredible opportunity. I was able to talk with three journalism professors, learning about what it looks like to study journalism at the collegiate level. I observed introductory and advanced classes in Visual Communication and had one-on-one discussions with three different professors. The experience taught me that so much more goes into every little part of film making and reporting than meets the eye. Journalism students also gave me pieces of advice, including the facts that you should never take some one's word as truth, if you give up easily you should choose a different profession, and improvisation becomes your life.
I also completed two assessments this week. One was the interview assessment covering my time with Mr. Moffeit last week. The other one detailed my day at the University of North Texas.
I am now hoping to complete one or two more interviews, hopefully with a female investigative journalist. By the end of the semester I will have picked a mentor.
Monday, November 17, 2014
Week 12
This week in ISM, I had an incredible interview in downtown Dallas, continued contacting professionals, and reviewed plans for the University of North Texas Field Trip with the class.
My interview was with Mr. Miles Moffeit, an investigative journalist from The Dallas Morning News. Hearing his experiences and wisdom as a member of the investigative team was incredible. He has been involved in investigative journalism for twenty years and is now a senior investigative reporter and Pulitzer Finalist. He explained that work within the newspaper is different than that in the TV field because the projects are often more in depth and detailed. His current project, for instance, has already lasted for over a year. He concluded that TV stations cover more stories, but the ones covered by the newspapers are on a greater scale. We also discussed the fact that there are few women in the field of investigative journalism. He explained that this is because the field is incredibly competitive, and women often trail men in salary. He elaborated, however, that most newspapers truly believe in fighting for justice and equality through sharing news, and this belief leads them to treat women fairly. Our time together was incredible, as Mr. Moffeit had great advice and information.
In class we also discussed upcoming plans for the UNT field trip. I have contacted several professors regarding the trip, and now have a clearer idea of what to expect next Wednesday.
My interview was with Mr. Miles Moffeit, an investigative journalist from The Dallas Morning News. Hearing his experiences and wisdom as a member of the investigative team was incredible. He has been involved in investigative journalism for twenty years and is now a senior investigative reporter and Pulitzer Finalist. He explained that work within the newspaper is different than that in the TV field because the projects are often more in depth and detailed. His current project, for instance, has already lasted for over a year. He concluded that TV stations cover more stories, but the ones covered by the newspapers are on a greater scale. We also discussed the fact that there are few women in the field of investigative journalism. He explained that this is because the field is incredibly competitive, and women often trail men in salary. He elaborated, however, that most newspapers truly believe in fighting for justice and equality through sharing news, and this belief leads them to treat women fairly. Our time together was incredible, as Mr. Moffeit had great advice and information.
In class we also discussed upcoming plans for the UNT field trip. I have contacted several professors regarding the trip, and now have a clearer idea of what to expect next Wednesday.
Friday, November 7, 2014
Week 11
This week in ISM was great. I was able to get caught up on assignments, specifically interview assessments. I also wrote thank you notes for my most recent interviews and contacted several new professionals. The ISM program is incredible in that it allows students to learn professional skills in every sense, including common courtesy.
This week I also contacted several professionals about possible interviews. I am now scheduled for an interview with a member of the project team at the Dallas Morning News next Tuesday. The project team handles the investigative work at the paper, so I am delighted to have this incredible experience.
I have also contacted professionals at FOX and WFAA, and I am hoping to gain interviews there as well. I have already had six interviews, however, and I am only required to have five. Since I have time though, I want to get as many as possible before deciding on a mentor.
Last year, interviews were one of my favorite parts of the program, because you are able to hear so many different perspectives on differnt areas of the field. That is why I am hoping to accomplish as many as possible this year within the field of investigative journalism.
Monday, November 3, 2014
Week 10
ISM just keeps getting better and better. This week, I interviewed two investigative journalists from WFAA 8 in downtown Dallas. I also gained valuable contacts for possible future interviews and completed interview assessments.
Having interviews at a TV station was a new and exciting experience. The journalism jobs there are similar to those at newspapers, but instead of finding information and making it interesting enough to read, the TV stations have to make it interesting enough to grab the attention of viewers, as well as keeping it incredibly concise due to the limited amount of time to air.
I was given the incredible opportunity to interview Jasan Trahan, a man who was an investigative journalist with The Dallas Morning News for several years and now works with Channel 8 News. He obviously loves his job and had great advice for the future,
I also interviewed Byron Harris, arguably the best investigative reporter in the nation. He has covered stories including the Russian mafia, tensions in the Congo, and Area 51. He has won six duPonts, the TV version of a Pulitzer Prize, and has been arrested for unwillingness to give up his camera. The difference he has made for this country, as well as for countries around the world, inspires me to continue down this incredible path.
Speaking with these two individuals helped me see that I may be more interested in the TV side of reporting that the newspapers, due to the high amounts of energy and action within the field.
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Having interviews at a TV station was a new and exciting experience. The journalism jobs there are similar to those at newspapers, but instead of finding information and making it interesting enough to read, the TV stations have to make it interesting enough to grab the attention of viewers, as well as keeping it incredibly concise due to the limited amount of time to air.
I was given the incredible opportunity to interview Jasan Trahan, a man who was an investigative journalist with The Dallas Morning News for several years and now works with Channel 8 News. He obviously loves his job and had great advice for the future,
I also interviewed Byron Harris, arguably the best investigative reporter in the nation. He has covered stories including the Russian mafia, tensions in the Congo, and Area 51. He has won six duPonts, the TV version of a Pulitzer Prize, and has been arrested for unwillingness to give up his camera. The difference he has made for this country, as well as for countries around the world, inspires me to continue down this incredible path.
Speaking with these two individuals helped me see that I may be more interested in the TV side of reporting that the newspapers, due to the high amounts of energy and action within the field.
Interview with Investigative Journalist Byron Harris from WFAA 8.
Friday, October 24, 2014
Week 9
This week in the Independent Study and Mentorship Program, I was able to complete my display board plan which will encompass the main points of my topic. It may change before the end of the year, but it gives me a good starting place to jump off from.
I also scheduled two interviews at WFAA 8 in downtown Dallas. These will take place next week, with investigative journalists. I can't wait!
I also completed interview assessments for my second and third interviews. It was fun to look back at them a few weeks later to see what I've learned since then and how wise the individuals were. I still can't believe that I interviewed a man who has written several books, won a Pulitzer Prize, and covered the take down of Saddam Hussein. This is what makes ISM so cool.
I also confirmed plans with professors at the University of North Texas for our class's field trip next month. I will be attending two classes and conducting an interview with one of the professors.
My next goals in ISM include getting caught up on interview assessments, re-contacting professionals I haven't heard back from, and continuing to research the field in depth.
Monday, October 20, 2014
Week 8
Another fantastic week has come and gone in the ISM program. I began contacting professors at UNT about our class's upcoming visit, so that I will be able to meet with them in person. I also had a second interview at the Dallas Morning News Headquarters in Dallas. This was an incredible experience. The week ended on a high note as I turned in a research assessment and interview assessment as well.
My interview was with William Pry, a member of the digital team and a production owner at the Dallas Morning News. He gave me an extensive tour of the newsroom and the other areas on the third floor. I was able to see where the investigative team works, where the news station films, where magazines are created, where old pictures are kept, and much more. He explained his extensive experience in various aspects within the field of journalism and gave me advice about how to enter the field. One of the main concepts Mr. Pry drove home as we talked was the importance of instinct, curiosity and critical thinking. He explained that while being able to write is completely necessary, one can not become a successful journalist without these character traits. My interview with Mr. Pry was a fantastic experience, and I definitely see myself coming to him for advice in the future.
I also completed a research assessment on Friday, in which I researched the foundation of investigative journalism. As it turns out, investigative journalism gained its reputation in the investigation of the Watergate Scandal. Up until then, it had little to no reputation, but when journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein uncovered the horrifying corruption within the White House, the United States realized the significance of this field.
I am looking forward to future interviews at the Dallas Morning News and research the field further.
My interview was with William Pry, a member of the digital team and a production owner at the Dallas Morning News. He gave me an extensive tour of the newsroom and the other areas on the third floor. I was able to see where the investigative team works, where the news station films, where magazines are created, where old pictures are kept, and much more. He explained his extensive experience in various aspects within the field of journalism and gave me advice about how to enter the field. One of the main concepts Mr. Pry drove home as we talked was the importance of instinct, curiosity and critical thinking. He explained that while being able to write is completely necessary, one can not become a successful journalist without these character traits. My interview with Mr. Pry was a fantastic experience, and I definitely see myself coming to him for advice in the future.
I also completed a research assessment on Friday, in which I researched the foundation of investigative journalism. As it turns out, investigative journalism gained its reputation in the investigation of the Watergate Scandal. Up until then, it had little to no reputation, but when journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein uncovered the horrifying corruption within the White House, the United States realized the significance of this field.
I am looking forward to future interviews at the Dallas Morning News and research the field further.
Monday, October 13, 2014
Week 7
As it is the beginning of the second grading period of the school year, we focused on new learning targets and plans for the upcoming six weeks in the Independent Study and Mentorship Program this week. I will be conducting more interviews and research throughout the next six weeks, as well as getting a more extensive idea of my plans for the rest of the course.
I also had an interview on Friday with Mr. Pederson, the Head of the Journalism Department at the Southern Methodist University. It was a fantastic experience. Mr. Pederson has an extensive background in journalism as he has worked for many years with multiple newspapers and is now a professor in the field. He gave a tour of the journalism department at SMU, showing me the incredible equipment that students are able to use there. He also explained that while the field of journalism on paper may be shrinking, the field on the Internet has never been larger. The field of journalism simply needs to find a way to monetize the articles being shared online.
Conducting interviews with professionals in the field of journalism has been a fantastic way to gain information about the field that makes it seem personal, as well as easier to remember.
Monday, October 6, 2014
Week 6
Another awesome week has come and gone in the Frisco High ISM program. I have continued to research colleges and careers centered around investigative journalism and have continued searching for professionals within the field to interview.
The most exciting part of the week, however, was the ISM Business Symposium on Friday. This is an event in which 60 professionals from around the Dallas area meet with ISM students to discuss their fields and share professional advice. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that although this was my second symposium to be a part of, as an ISM 2 student, I still gained incredible advice and had a fantastic time. The main point of the symposium is to help the ISM students grow professional skills in the interview setting. The professionals I spoke with told me that my confidence, responses and manners were all strong, but I needed to remove filler words. I plan to follow this advice in upcoming interviews within and outside of the ISM program.
Another fantastic part of the symposium was the opportunity to talk to ISM students from other schools. It was greatly encouraging and inspiring to hear about the goals, dreams and plan of other motivated high school students. At this age, peers typically focus on less important topics, and it is highly unusual to hear the true heart of an individual. Hearing from them gave me excitement about my generation's future, as well as motivation to continue pursuing my own goals.
After the symposium, I was given the opportunity, along with three other ISM students from the district, to attend lunch with and personally thank the professionals who attended the symposium. It was extremely considerate of these individuals to take time off work in order to help young entrepreneurs on their journeys to change the world.
The ISM Business Symposium was an unforgettable experience. I could not be more thankful for the time and advice of the professionals.
The most exciting part of the week, however, was the ISM Business Symposium on Friday. This is an event in which 60 professionals from around the Dallas area meet with ISM students to discuss their fields and share professional advice. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that although this was my second symposium to be a part of, as an ISM 2 student, I still gained incredible advice and had a fantastic time. The main point of the symposium is to help the ISM students grow professional skills in the interview setting. The professionals I spoke with told me that my confidence, responses and manners were all strong, but I needed to remove filler words. I plan to follow this advice in upcoming interviews within and outside of the ISM program.
Another fantastic part of the symposium was the opportunity to talk to ISM students from other schools. It was greatly encouraging and inspiring to hear about the goals, dreams and plan of other motivated high school students. At this age, peers typically focus on less important topics, and it is highly unusual to hear the true heart of an individual. Hearing from them gave me excitement about my generation's future, as well as motivation to continue pursuing my own goals.
After the symposium, I was given the opportunity, along with three other ISM students from the district, to attend lunch with and personally thank the professionals who attended the symposium. It was extremely considerate of these individuals to take time off work in order to help young entrepreneurs on their journeys to change the world.
The ISM Business Symposium was an unforgettable experience. I could not be more thankful for the time and advice of the professionals.
Monday, September 29, 2014
Week 5
What a fantastic week! I completed a research assessment, submitted my final resume, and conducted two interviews.
The first interview I conducted was with Ms. Leslie Thompson, a freelance journalist based in Lewisville. She explained to me the wide variety of jobs within the field of journalism, as well as the steps necessary to take in order to ensure success within the field. Hearing about her experiences and what made her decide to pursue the field was both fascinating and incredibly beneficial. She also gave me incredible advice as to what to do now and in the future to ensure success in journalism. It was exciting to hear about her passion for writing and how she never stops improving her skills.
My second interview was with Mr. Tod Robberson, an editorial writer for The Dallas Morning News. Little did I know, however, that he also spent many years in the investigative side of journalism, covering stories all over Central America and the Middle East. On top of this, he has been mentioned in several books, has worked for the Washington Post, and won the Pulitzer Prize. The feeling of walking into The Dallas Morning News headquarters in downtown Dallas was breath-taking, but the words shared with this incredible man were more than I could have hoped for. He told me stories of his past experiences across the seas that left me dying to know more and showed me newspaper articles he was especially proud of. I felt very much on the inside loop when he explained his current project that he has been working on for a year, and I was awed when he showed me his front-page article of the Dallas Morning News covering the capture of Saddam Hussein. Mr. Robberson gave me an idea of what the field of investigative journalism can look like, the costs and rewards within this field, as well as advice for a successful future as a journalist.
Interviewing professionals is truly amazing. What better way to get a feel for what I hope to do with my future? It has been truly remarkable to hear from people living out their dreams in the field I desire to enter into.
Friday, September 19, 2014
Week 4
This week in ISM I wrote my first research assessment, submitted a rough draft of my resume and began contacting professionals in the field of journalism to ask about interviews.
My assessment this week covered the debate over the definition of investigative journalism. Some professionals believe that investigative journalism refers to any type of journalism that is used to uncover obscure facts, including celebrity news all the way up to current events in oppressive countries. Others believe that investigative journalism requires a specific and thorough process and must serve a noble purpose. I do not know where I stand on the issue at this point, but I am looking forward to asking the professionals that I interview about their opinions on the matter.
Making a resume this week was also interesting, as I have learned that it is important to focus on what professionals will find most impressive about my academic and extracurricular activities. Having already completed a resume for ISM last year, as well as several for college applications, it was not hard to make one that would fit for my journey in ISM this year.
I also sent out seventeen requests for interviews from professionals in the field. This includes Dallas Morning News editorial writers and staff, freelance journalists, and reporters and journalists from Fox 4 and WFAA 8. I have corresponded with two of these professionals and have officially set up two interviews for the coming weeks. I can hardly wait for other professionals to reply!
Having typed a research paper, created a resume, contacted seventeen professionals and set up two interviews, I am happy to say that this was an extremely productive and exciting week in ISM.
My assessment this week covered the debate over the definition of investigative journalism. Some professionals believe that investigative journalism refers to any type of journalism that is used to uncover obscure facts, including celebrity news all the way up to current events in oppressive countries. Others believe that investigative journalism requires a specific and thorough process and must serve a noble purpose. I do not know where I stand on the issue at this point, but I am looking forward to asking the professionals that I interview about their opinions on the matter.
Making a resume this week was also interesting, as I have learned that it is important to focus on what professionals will find most impressive about my academic and extracurricular activities. Having already completed a resume for ISM last year, as well as several for college applications, it was not hard to make one that would fit for my journey in ISM this year.
I also sent out seventeen requests for interviews from professionals in the field. This includes Dallas Morning News editorial writers and staff, freelance journalists, and reporters and journalists from Fox 4 and WFAA 8. I have corresponded with two of these professionals and have officially set up two interviews for the coming weeks. I can hardly wait for other professionals to reply!
Having typed a research paper, created a resume, contacted seventeen professionals and set up two interviews, I am happy to say that this was an extremely productive and exciting week in ISM.
Friday, September 12, 2014
Week 3
This week in the Independent Study and Mentorship Program, I created a primary contact list for my year in ISM. The point of the contact list is to create a list of professionals to call, email and meet up with who have experience in the field. The interviews conducted are a fantastic way to gather information regarding the field of interest.
I quickly discovered, however, that finding contact information is not as easy as it would seem. While finding the names of individuals was fairly simple, it took much more digging to find actual phone numbers and email addresses. I was able to find contacts from several newspapers, including the Dallas Morning News, as well as professors from the University of North Texas who specialize in the field of investigative journalism. I am pleased with the results I was able to compile, and I am looking forward to reaching out to these professionals to see if they are willing to explain their experiences in the field of investigative journalism.
We also spent time during the class period discussing expectations outlined in the ISM contract. As I am now a second-year ISM student, I am familiar with most policies and ideas, but it was still incredibly beneficial to be reminded of the procedures put in place to ensure the success of the Independent Study and Mentorship Program.
I am looking forward to diving into research and networking next week and in the weeks to come!
I quickly discovered, however, that finding contact information is not as easy as it would seem. While finding the names of individuals was fairly simple, it took much more digging to find actual phone numbers and email addresses. I was able to find contacts from several newspapers, including the Dallas Morning News, as well as professors from the University of North Texas who specialize in the field of investigative journalism. I am pleased with the results I was able to compile, and I am looking forward to reaching out to these professionals to see if they are willing to explain their experiences in the field of investigative journalism.
We also spent time during the class period discussing expectations outlined in the ISM contract. As I am now a second-year ISM student, I am familiar with most policies and ideas, but it was still incredibly beneficial to be reminded of the procedures put in place to ensure the success of the Independent Study and Mentorship Program.
I am looking forward to diving into research and networking next week and in the weeks to come!
Sunday, September 7, 2014
Weeks 1 & 2
The first two weeks of school and in ISM have been crazy!
So far, we have learned the ropes of the course for the year, learned how to set up our weekly blogs, started using the FISD Student Learning Hub, where we can see and submit all of our assignments, learned about what does and does not constitute professional dress, given introduction speeches and begun on our individual assignments.
So far, I have submitted my mission statement and quote for the course, 15 generic interview questions to build off of in my interviews, and my career outlook assessment.
My mission statement, which outlines my desires and goals for this year in ISM is:
Through the course of the Independent Study and Mentorship Program, I desire to investigate and obtain a deeper understanding of the field of investigative journalism. In this process, I am motivated to become more proficient in research and writing, and I desire to make a contribution to society through a research article that brings corruption to light.
My quote for the year is, "Greater love has none than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." John 15 :13.
I am very excited to see what this year has in store and what I can accomplish!
So far, we have learned the ropes of the course for the year, learned how to set up our weekly blogs, started using the FISD Student Learning Hub, where we can see and submit all of our assignments, learned about what does and does not constitute professional dress, given introduction speeches and begun on our individual assignments.
So far, I have submitted my mission statement and quote for the course, 15 generic interview questions to build off of in my interviews, and my career outlook assessment.
My mission statement, which outlines my desires and goals for this year in ISM is:
Through the course of the Independent Study and Mentorship Program, I desire to investigate and obtain a deeper understanding of the field of investigative journalism. In this process, I am motivated to become more proficient in research and writing, and I desire to make a contribution to society through a research article that brings corruption to light.
My quote for the year is, "Greater love has none than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." John 15 :13.
I am very excited to see what this year has in store and what I can accomplish!
Friday, September 5, 2014
Guatemalan Revelation
Breathing in the crisp air, I stared out into the mountains surrounding me. Wind whipped through my hair as I stood confidently in a small, wobbly tree, clutching its branches to keep me from plummeting downwards hundreds of feet. I was at the top of a mountain in Guatemala, leaning out of a tree protruding away from the face of the rock, staring out towards the mountains in the distance and wondering what was out there for me. My mission team was resting in the plain, one-room church behind me, eating a simple dinner of ramen and tortillas, but I was too in love with the land and the people to be trapped inside. The land of Guatemala revealed to me my desire to live a life of service, adventure, and protection.
My team, a group of twelve high school students and two adults from the Dallas area, had spent the morning hiking up a rocky, treacherous mountain trail until we reached a tiny Guatemalan village at the top. The poor, rural conditions we encountered shocked and humbled us. With no source of clean water in the village, many inhabitants were sickly and disease-ridden. Gnats swarmed around the eyes and open cuts of children who had long ago learned the uselessness of swatting at the ever present pests and now let their arms hang idly at their sides. What shocked us most, however,was the joy of the people. It hurt to observe their joy despite their horrifying living conditions, recognizing the fact that I have so much more than them and am selfish and ungrateful in comparison. We spent the day painting the village's concrete church as children, and even some adults, peered at us from behind trees and through windows, giggling with glee whenever we looked their way. By evening, having shared a day of experiences, we were able to open up to the people of the village by telling our life stories, hearing theirs and worshiping God as a family. It was during that evening that I realized that protecting others and fighting injustice was what I planned to do for the rest of my life.
Deepak Chopra stated that, "Passivity is the same as defending injustice." The reason I go on mission trips, the reason I desire to study investigative journalism, the reason I desire to live at all, is to make a difference in the life of others by fighting against injustice and bringing about change. By living any other way, I would be allowing injustice to fester and grow. I have experienced firsthand the painful existence of those in countries less fortunate than our own, and my desire is to play a part in protecting the United States from ever becoming like those countries, and to find a way to help those countries become whole again. I desire to study investigative journalism to begin preparation for a life dedicated to service, justice and change.
My team, a group of twelve high school students and two adults from the Dallas area, had spent the morning hiking up a rocky, treacherous mountain trail until we reached a tiny Guatemalan village at the top. The poor, rural conditions we encountered shocked and humbled us. With no source of clean water in the village, many inhabitants were sickly and disease-ridden. Gnats swarmed around the eyes and open cuts of children who had long ago learned the uselessness of swatting at the ever present pests and now let their arms hang idly at their sides. What shocked us most, however,was the joy of the people. It hurt to observe their joy despite their horrifying living conditions, recognizing the fact that I have so much more than them and am selfish and ungrateful in comparison. We spent the day painting the village's concrete church as children, and even some adults, peered at us from behind trees and through windows, giggling with glee whenever we looked their way. By evening, having shared a day of experiences, we were able to open up to the people of the village by telling our life stories, hearing theirs and worshiping God as a family. It was during that evening that I realized that protecting others and fighting injustice was what I planned to do for the rest of my life.
Deepak Chopra stated that, "Passivity is the same as defending injustice." The reason I go on mission trips, the reason I desire to study investigative journalism, the reason I desire to live at all, is to make a difference in the life of others by fighting against injustice and bringing about change. By living any other way, I would be allowing injustice to fester and grow. I have experienced firsthand the painful existence of those in countries less fortunate than our own, and my desire is to play a part in protecting the United States from ever becoming like those countries, and to find a way to help those countries become whole again. I desire to study investigative journalism to begin preparation for a life dedicated to service, justice and change.
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