Progress and growth aren’t always easy to recognize in the moment. They are hidden in the late nights doing homework, the silent moments of doubt and the small victories that remind me why I started in the first place. As I look back on my journey thus far, I realize how much I’ve changed, how much I’ve learned and how much I have persevered in my life.
Throughout my high school years, I considered myself fortunate to know what career I wanted to pursue. I never stressed about ‘what is it that I want to do for the rest of my life?’ I should’ve knocked on wood because little did I know I would experience this stress and confusion when I got to college. But for me, the question poses a different meaning now. I know I have fallen in love with communications and telling stories through whatever form of media I can, so now when I wonder ‘what is it that I want to do for the rest of my life?’ I know of the many opportunities and possibilities there are, and I want to continue to dream big no matter what circumstances I am faced with.
Of course, I wouldn’t have pushed myself so hard if it weren’t for those who have supported me along the way–mentors who believed in me, friends who reminded me of my worth, and colleagues who challenged me to be better.
I want to thank my high school yearbook teacher Justin Stene, for nurturing my skills and encouraging me to keep pursuing this profession, and my college professor Kathleen Gannon for teaching me the importance of journalism and that we, UTEP students, can make an impact.
Thank you to my mom and dad, for telling me that I can pursue whatever I desire if I just work hard enough, and for encouraging me to continue prioritizing my education as it is a privilege to do so. And to Isaac, for supporting me through the stress and staying up with me during late nights of work–your patience and kind words mean more than I can say.
Most importantly, I want to thank myself, for every time I doubted myself but kept going anyway. For every challenge I faced but refused to quit and for choosing to continue to learn and grow.
Being a journalist is a path full of challenges, learning about others, yourself and putting your work out for criticism time and time again. But it is a career path so vital to the world. I want to be a part of the amazing story tellers who allow their readers to feel the emotion of those I write about with integrity and compassion.
Stepping into the role of web and copy editor, is another step forward in my journey. I don’t know what lies ahead and I’m still learning every day, but I know one thing for sure–I’m so proud of myself and I know the best is yet to come.
Evelyn Palma is the web and copy editor for The Prospector and may be reached at [email protected] and on Instagram @evelynp.media.
