I started working for The Cord as a summer reporter last year. Before applying, I worked as a UX Designer in non-profit organizations and as an events and marketing intern at Blueprint Magazine. Although I enjoyed designing, I struggled to find long-term stability and began to wonder if it was time to explore a new direction. With a background in research and writing, journalism and communications felt like the right fit, a field where curiosity and storytelling converge.
At first, I struggled to adapt. Learning Canadian Press Style and writing campus news that both informed and engaged readers was challenging. However, with guidance from the former Editor-in-Chief, Bronte Behling at The Cord, and Harleen Kaur Dhillon, the Editor-in-Chief at The Community Edition, I gradually learned the ropes. Progress can be slow or fast for everyone, but they share a commonality: it always requires dedication and the willingness to learn.
As I spent more time at the Wilfrid Laurier University Student Publications, I grew more confident in my skills and appreciated the supportive community around me. The staff members at The Cord and The Community Edition trusted me with new opportunities, including writing, editing, creating graphics, and developing pitches for volunteer writers. Eventually, I took on the role of News Director, where I not only wrote and edited articles but also supported other contributors throughout the editorial process.
One of my most memorable experiences was attending the NASH Journalism Conference earlier this year. It was incredible to meet professionals and student journalists from across Canada, exchange ideas, and learn how technology and AI are reshaping the future of reporting. I even met members of The Gauntlet from the University of Calgary, my hometown, which brought back a wave of nostalgia and reminded me how small and connected the journalism world truly is.
The conference also deepened my appreciation for the work done at WLUSP. Seeing other student publications’ creativity and dedication reminded me of how much pride I take in being part of this community. I also met more of our own talented staff members, including social media manager Santosh Chandrasekar, and The Cord’s current Editor-in-Chief, Sheryl Madakkai. This experience reaffirmed how fortunate I am to work alongside such passionate and talented people.
Although I don’t visit the publication office as often these days, as I’ve been focused on job hunting and writing for The Cord and The Community Edition, I will never forget the experiences and friendships I’ve built here.
For students studying Liberal Arts or Journalism and Communications at Laurier, I highly recommend getting involved with this incredible organization. You’ll meet some of the most supportive, creative, and kind people on campus—and you will gain experiences that will stay with you long after graduation.
I’m grateful for everyone I’ve met through WLUSP and the lessons I have learned along the way. Here’s another great year of storytelling and community.
Contributed Photo/Sangjun Han
