He walked into the warm classroom. Instructor Ken Strobel greeted him as he walked to his seat, intimidated by the sentence of the day, yet excited to dive into his article about worms. He smiled to himself as the room filled with chatter and music by The 1975.
As The West Ottawan enters a new year of journalism, students may be on the fence about what the class and publication offer. No need to worry. Journalism has tons to offer, for both its readers and staff.
- You can make a difference on campus.
In the world of journalism, anything can become a newsworthy story. From happy to sad, The West Ottawan has room for all articles. While one person is creating an article about gun violence in Michigan, another is making an article about the wonders of thrifting.
Former West Ottawa student and staff member Mariah Stewart said that her “…most enjoyable article to write was ‘Unsupported and At Risk.’ I was able to write about something personal that happened to me and share it with others. I felt like I was bringing awareness to a problem that some did not know existed in our area and also provided some relatability to those who have dealt with similar experiences,” The point is, journalism has a door for everyone; as long as you find your rhythm, your words and stories will make a difference to the publication and readers.
- Supportive environment.
The class itself is unlike any other at West Ottawa. Your craziest ideas can come to life with the guidance of Strobel and support from the staff. “Usually everyone is in that class because they want to be, so writing articles with other passionate writers is really fun,” said former West Ottawa student and staff member Emily Book. Despite everyone being in the same boat progressing at different speeds, there is always someone to advise you. The family found within journalism is consistent; we all want what is best for each other.
- Journalism is anything BUT boring.
We can all agree that listening to your instructor’s lectures for hours is tiring. Journalism is the perfect class that breaks up your day with an even amount of fun and purpose. Although a large portion of the class deals with writing, there are many opportunities for staff to discuss an intriguing story.
“I joined journalism because I had heard great things about the class from upperclassmen. There was freedom to write about anything you want in class and I really liked that idea,” said Stewart. With journalism comes freedom. Yes, story ideas have to be approved by Strobel, but for the most part, any topic is up for debate.
- Learn life skills that you can use outside of the classroom.
Journalism has many skills to offer. Not only does the class allow you to improve your writing, but it also provides critical thinking and listening skills. Conducting interviews is key to the writing process. Therefore, it is important that the staff listens carefully to their interviewees, and can think on the spot to continue the interview process without reading from a script.
Alongside this, good writing is important. Students learn a new writing skill nearly every day. “Strobel had us do warm-ups
every day that focused on correct grammar, and that honestly helped me so much to this day,” said Book. Journalism is not geometry. You will use these skills for the rest of your life.
- Strobel
Strobel continues to make journalism the best class at West Ottawa. There is never a dull moment when you are in the same room as him. His smile is inviting, his music taste is amazing, and his stories are gratifying. Strobel always knows how to make us laugh, even if that means feeding into our immaturity.
Not only is he the life of the party, but he also wants the best for his students. Strobel goes above and beyond to connect with his students and help us improve our work. He takes the time to thoroughly read and point out struggle zones within everyone’s articles. He shows that he cares about us and our needs. Book said, “Honestly, just join the class for Strobel. Strobel changed my life and I’ve never met a funnier man.”
