Jalyn Cameron working during “print night” at The Hilltop office. (Keith Golden Jr./The Hilltop)
My time as opinion editor has been extremely meaningful, albeit a bit unconventional, as I joined the editorial team towards the beginning of the spring semester.
My time with the Hilltop began as a columnist in my fall semester of junior year. As an English major, I have a special love for writing in its many forms, and I thought it would be amazing if I could become an opinion writer at the first Black student Newspaper, one of my favorite authors, Zora Neale Hurston’s legacy.
I loved being a columnist; I enjoyed the ability to express my voice and opinions on the topics that I believed mattered to me and the broader Howard community. I mainly discussed issues relating to pop culture and social justice, and how the two are often intertwined. However, in late fall, my previous editor had to step down and I became the opinion editor in the early spring semester. I was ecstatic to step up and take on more responsibility.
These past few months have been a truly unique learning experience where I was simultaneously challenged and rewarded. I wrote a few pieces this semester, but I mainly focused on the editing aspect. Taking on an editorial position mid-year required me to quickly adapt, sharpen my leadership skills and determine how to balance a range of responsibilities. It was a period of growth that taught me the importance of communication and collaboration. I am especially grateful to my writers for their grace and understanding. I am extremely proud of us! I think we produced some great pieces.
I would like to thank Darius Osborne, my editor during my period as a columnist. As I was adjusting, I often revisited his comments and insights, which helped guide my approach. I am also grateful to Anijah Franklin for her support in copy editing most of the opinion section’s stories and being a kind and helpful presence as I acclimated to my new role. Finally, JD Jean-Jacques for thinking of me for this position, and both JD and Sydney Goitia-Doran for their continued support.
Overall, my time as opinion editor has been invaluable. As someone who wants to incorporate writing in whatever I do post-grad, I think editing was the best thing I could have done to become a stronger writer. I truly learned a lot. I am immensely thankful I could serve the Hilltop community in this way.
