When I was graduating from Emerson College in Boston with a degree in journalism years ago, I was faced with a choice between job offers.
I could become an editorial assistant at one of the two large Boston dailies, or I could be a working reporter at a weekly newspaper in a suburb an hour north of the city.
Good sense told me to take the job at the big daily. While I wouldn’t get to write much at the outset, it boasted a bigger paycheck and growth potential. But I was young and impatient, and I wanted to get that first byline right out of the gate.
I took the job at the weekly. It was one of the best career decisions I’ve ever made.
I spent the next several years immersing myself in the communities I covered working for several different weekly papers. I learned about local politics, issues and community life. I learned to write and take better photographs from talented co-workers and editors.
Shortly after I married and moved into an apartment above the local newspaper in North Andover, Massachusetts, I was named editor of that very paper.
Living and working there was an amazing experience, both personally and professionally. Covering events and issues helped me become involved in my community. That engagement also gave me the knowledge and understanding to accurately reflect the community.
When I became a mother, however, I sought more regular work hours and a better income. Although I stayed in the newspaper business, I eventually held a number of different roles in production and IT management.
The years flew by.
When my son graduated high school last year and planned to head off to a New England college, I realized I was ready for a new chapter as well.
Instead of starting something new, however, I decided on making my past into my future by getting back into community journalism. It took a little time to find the right opportunity, but I am excited to be the new publisher and editor of the Star-Herald.
In the short time since I arrived, I’ve learned two key things.
First, the Star-Herald staff is talented and dedicated to serving both readers and advertisers. I look forward to working with such a great team.
Second, folks here are unendingly generous with their knowledge, time and assistance. They are also committed to their communities and making this area the kind of place where we all want to live.
It will take some time for me to get to know Kosciusko and Attala County well. I hope as I do, you will introduce yourselves if you see me at community events or just stop by the Star-Herald office and say hello.
