Jam-packed lessons

By Chemi Chemi (Brooklyn, NY)

In just one day, SJP completed so much amazing work. Even though we are all exhausted, I feel proud of how productive we were. My favorite part of the day was the survey on Sikhism and the relocation of the Princeton hospital. I had personally never heard of the term Sikhism, and I realized that many New Yorkers aren’t aware of this religion, which is tragic. I think the activity - with the help of my counselor Mariya - developed my speaking skills, and also improved my professional manners, because the way we present ourselves to interviewees is crucial.

Even after visiting Newsweek, The New York Times, and CNN, we came back to Princeton and interviewed people in the neighborhood about issues due to the relocation of the hospital. It made me realize that SJP could be the voice for those who could not speak, and that we ourselves could be the change.

I thank Mariya for being so understanding about the personal stories that I shared with her. She is amazing, and just knowing that there is someone who can actually understand me makes me hopeful for my dreams. I love her! I simply have no words to accurately describe my enthusiasm for SJP. Thank you everyone, you all are the best.

On the field

By Renan Meira (Queens, NY)

 

Today was my first time going in the field and interviewing people. I found myself in many interesting situations that I had never been exposed to, but there were two things that particularly caught my attention:

 

1. Whenever we approached people to ask questions, they would see how confident we were, and if we seemed insecure or demonstrated any signs of fear, they would respond in a rather defensive way. This taught me that the relationship between a journalist and a subject is much more reciprocal than I previously thought, and reminded me that we need to collaborate with out interviewees to put them at ease.

 

2. I was very surprised by how many people were unwilling to contribute to surveys, even to those that could be potentially beneficial. For example, when I approached today two women who were walking by and asked them about the relocation of the hospital in their area, I was rebuffed coldly. They only stopped when we made it clear that we didn’t work for any religious or marketing group, and we were simply student journalists conducting a research.

 

Overall I was able to get a real picture of what it is like to be a reporter, and the challenges that come along with the job. But we, as journalists, should always use our idealism to trigger changes in society, despite of all the difficulties.

A comforting confidante

By Ashley Patterson (Philadelphia, PA) 

“Pain slashed through my belly, tears flooded my little brown eyes.
Confusion shocked me like lightning and fear took over my mind.”

As I sat in the Princeton hospital waiting room, my mind began to wonder. I was afraid that despite the long trip and the wait, I would be forced to turn around. Mariya, my gorgeous counselor and relatively new confidante, sat right by my side. While I was lost in my thoughts she tried to renew my little smile. I had never felt pain like this before. I felt empty for I literally had nothing left inside of me. My body felt weak and I had no desire to speak. I wanted to hold myself. But I looked over at Mariya and she smiled at me, and I had no choice but to smile back, because I knew she was there for me. 

A few days earlier I had attended the town hall meeting with Congressman Rush Holt, and after he started speaking, my body suddenly gave out. Not only was I in physical pain, I was preoccupied with the thought that I could not go home like this, especially after my first night. When we arrived back on Princeton campus, my wonderful counselors Greg and Shirley suggested that I go back to my dorm for some “rest” time. This is where I met my counselor Eileen. Eileen is a sweet, very short woman who can brighten almost any mood. And as I walked back to my dorm with her she completely cleared my mind of any pains and worries that were bottled up inside. She gave me a sense of ease. She was the first sense of the love and the peace that I would find at SJP.

Then as I lay on the hospital bed two days after my encounters with Congressman Holt and Eileen, I found myself examining the big difference in attitude between SJP and my ordinary life. The vibe here was great - I knew that I was rooted for, and that there was someone I could open up to at all times. I had always been on Team Ashley, but unexpectedly, I realized that others were on my team as well. 

Mariya is that person that I honestly relate to as if we knew each other for years. I can laugh and cry, yell and scream, and stay in a hospital overnight for nine hours, and she’d still be there. I came to Princeton thinking that I'd connect with the students and do my work. And in the midst of completing my task, I found a shoulder to lean on. That shoulder just happens to belong to Mariya.

We're halfway there

By Makenna May (Coeur D'Alene, ID)

They say that immersion into a foreign culture is the best way to learn a language. For me, this program has been a head-on immersion into journalism, and I can truly say that I have learned so much already. My high school in Coeur D'Alene, Idaho doesn't have a school newspaper, so unlike many students here, I never really had experience working on a paper before I came here. I was definitely nervous for the program, but more than that, I was excited to learn. I have known for years that I am interested in pursuing journalism - I have always loved reading and writing, I enjoy following foreign news, and Anderson Cooper is my role model - and the unparalleled experience I have had at the program so far has left me both grateful and humble for being chosen.

Our workshops have exposed us to the different types of journalism - news, opinion writing, feature stories, investigative journalism and sports journalism - and I have found that I really enjoy opinion pieces and features stories because they include many stylistic elements and allow room for creativity. We also have a newsroom where we frantically draft, edit, and organize our pieces, often resulting in hustling, bustling chaos. We have also been exposed to the stress of deadlines and have been sleep deprived in classic journalistic fashion. But I have grown so much and I wouldn't trade my experience for anything - not even a nap! By going outside of my comfort zone, I have had the opportunity to learn from my new friends here and push myself to new limits.

On our first night here, our directors told us that these ten days are very much like a marathon, and the metaphor fits well. We pack so much into everyday, we grow tired, and we work into the night. But we support each other, we joke, we laugh, and we create a family. I have loved my experience here, and this immersion into a whole new world of journalism has been one amazing journey that I will always cherish.

The man with the thunder mask

By Kimberly Cionca (Bronx, NY)

Who would have ever thought that a mascot’s identity had to remain in secrecy? 

While attending the Trenton Thunder baseball game on Tuesday, I wanted to challenge myself and write an article about the various mascots present. I have always been intrigued by the mystery of the people behind the masks, and wanted to know why they decided to take the job. I had always associated mascoting - Geico’s mascot, Greg Golbing, approved of the verb - with a high school volunteer position. However, that’s not the only case; people like Golbing utilize this position for extra money in college too. 

Unfortunately, I quickly learned that the Thunder’s mascots, Boomer and the Lightning Bolt, didn't really want to talk. In fact, their identities have been a mystery for years.

This seemed odd since Lightning Bolt gave me a thumbs up when I asked him for an interview after the game. Something is fishy. Look out for my article!

Never a boring day

By Stephanie Frescas (Odessa, TX)

Something that’s been mentioned multiple times by the professional journalists in the program has been how there’s not really a typical day in the life of someone who’s job it is to find something as abstract as the truth.

The truth can be that the U.S. government values life at $9.1 mill, or that milk actually isn’t a miracle in liquid form, or that singing in a long bus ride “home” can bring you back from even the most exhausted, zombie-like state.

So if anything, this day full of what honestly seems like random knowledge, is probably what’s closest to the regular life of a writer.

I don’t think there’s another single career that has room for so much diversity in your day.  When a yearbook friend of mine interviewed me for the newspaper section, she asked me what I liked about journalism. I give awful interviews, so the quote was probably very vague, but the point I would’ve tried to get across would’ve been that you become a sort of “mini expert” on the subjects of your stories.  

I’m not an economic expert, but by listening and asking some questions of our speaker today, I learned something completely new to me. And I also only know very basic things about nutrition, but by being in the editorial workshop I learned something that would be new to a lot of people.

And I’ve always known the power of singing in hyping people up, but it was definitely still interesting.

The great debate

By Delilah Vasquez (Chicago, IL)

Discussions and debates allow for the development of powerful and invigorating ideas. During the opinion journalism workshop, we reviewed various controversial topics to debate on. After some consideration, the group agreed on the topic of abortion.

Personally, the topic presents a myriad of sides, leaving me unsure of my position. I was fortunate enough to be randomly assigned to pro-choice, sparing me the difficulty of having to choose a side.

Immediately I remembered what I learned from my AP government class and contributed points to our opening arguments. Presenting the information was rather easy, but the rebuttals incited aggressiveness in everyone. Each side was firm on its views and raised interesting points for the opposition to consider.

Almost all the students participated in the debate. I found this to be one of the most interesting workshops because it required everyone's involvement, forcing me to wake myself up and exercise my mind.

Crossing borders and ideologies

By Maryam Asjad (Jersey City, NJ)

I've grown accustomed to hearing about my country and my people discussed only in negative ways. It's enraging, and it stirs a riot inside me. I want to educate misinformed people, and fight for my background and my roots: Pakistan.

So, it was nice for a change to hear positive things about Pakistan and its people from a foreigner. Griff Witte, the deputy foreign editor of The Washington Post, spoke to us a few days ago. He's lived in Pakistan for more than a year and had great stories to share. But what really sparked my curiosity was his reaction to the people of Pakistan. I had expected him to have neutral, if not negative, views.

Then he surprised me. Witte absolutely loved living in Pakistan; he loved the people, the culture, and above all, the hospitality with which he was treated. I am probably biased, but it thrilled me to finally, finally hear someone sincerely express admiration towards the Pakistani people.

Witte's stories about his experiences reporting not only in Pakistan, but also in Afghanistan, were so refreshing to me, because he didn't tell them in a detached way. He seemed genuinely passionate about these countries, and even nostalgic at times.

I can only hope to have the same kind of passion for another country and its culture.

Bitten by the travel bug

By Alejandro Izquierdo (Chicago, IL)

From the devastation of Hurricane Katrine to the aftermath of 9/11, CNN producer Brian Rokus has been there bringing the latest news to the American people.

He spoke to us on Sunday about his exciting career as a journalist, and showed us clips from his 9/11 documentary America Remembers, which brought chills down everyone's backs. He also discussed his experience reporting on Hurricane Charlie from Virgina Beach, saying that it was "the only time I had sand in my teeth."

But the most memorable part of the workshop was when he discussed why he had chosen to pursue a career in journalism. Rokus explained that going to the craziest places at the craziest times was part of the job, and that reporting allows one to travel to many places and get paid for it. I really enjoyed his frank advice, which reaffirmed my interest in becoming a reporter.

Ode to Shirley Wu (SJP's awesome intern)

By Amy Char (San Francisco, CA)

always appreciate of your actions that morning
and how you briefly became my legal guardian
commendable camp mom
devotedly dishing out vending machine grub
one tip - enthralling Ewan McGregor's breakthrough in Trainspotting
might help with your one flaw... fear of needles
it wasn't even your arm that was ghastily gashed by a syringe!

A little piece of heaven

By Michelaina Johnson (Ojai, CA)

The East Coast, my little piece of heaven, is, well, heavenly. For years, that unknown region has beckoned me though, up until now, I have not had the opportunity to respond.


Too many unforeseen circumstances interrupted my planned trips to New York- lack of finances, scheduling conflicts and family issues. But fate has a way of overcoming all obstacles.

From the moment the plane landed, I was in love. The sunrise. The sunset. The beauty. The history. The culture. The personality. This ideal combination makes up the regality and harmony of Princeton University and the surrounding town.

The town reminds me of my hometown, but has a more relaxed and cultural character. Its authenticity and old-town nature - from the small ice cream shops to the grand theater - inspires and warms the heart.

So far, this town has exemplified the inward, unexplainable sentiment I feel for the East Coast.

But the crowned jewel of my heart is New York, the city that never sleeps. It has a special place for me; I know that I am meant to move there and to make a change, though I do not know yet what exactly it is. The trip to New York tomorrow will direct me on a new path - or change my course. Tomorrow will decide.

Listen... Run?

By Chastity Salas (Bronx, NY)

“Swing batter batter swing!”

Determination awaited its call
Once he listened,
He swung with all his mighty… The sound ling…
ered…
Rang within my ears,
Vibrated the deliberately aimed spears.
They went away, found a place to hide
I forgot about things today…
I found my listener outside.

My fear stepped away,
I listened to what she had to say
Her words displayed meaning in every way

Like a young boy attending his first baseball game
My feelings attended the same
She was our leader, our counselor. My speak-er
My tears didn’t swell, I skipped on sand… without having to
Tiptoe… Creak.
Sneak.

My story and hers knew each other, though they have not seen
The other’s face, yet something was there … fragile and serene
Our lives broadcasted LIVE… on our experienced screen.

Her tears glistened
In the corner of her eyes,
My soul listened
I didn’t force myself to try

No. Not this time
Expression ain’t a crime.

Funny how suddenly you can understand
Someone...through words.
Funny how I accepted my past’s demand
While sitting in the bleachers, I flew with the birds.

I felt listened too, today
Nothing can replace today.

Questions, questions, questions

By Angela Kim (Los Angeles, CA)

Today we had five speakers who came to talk to us, but I think the most interesting thing I learned about journalism was the connections that a journalist could make throughout his or her career. Eli Saslow from The Washington Post spoke about his experience reporting from the White House and his interviews with President Obama. After his talk, I realized that there are so many opportunities for journalists to create a network, which may not be available for people in other careers.

Eliza Gray from The New Republic also said something that I found amazing, which was that journalists have a “license” to ask any question to anyone. This was one of the most valuable lessons I learned here, and it really influenced my view of journalism as a career.

Breaking news and perceptions

By Delia Beristain (Fort Washington, MD)

The past few days have felt like weeks: not in a negative sense, but because we have been unbelievably productive, and have made an effort to maintain our spirits awake and aware in order to fully grasp every meaningful moment in the program. I enjoyed meeting amazing people from different states, since I rarely get to meet such friendly and relatable people who stand their grounds passionately and yet are open to discussion and to sharing new ideas.

One of the highlights of the program was the breaking news workshop by CNN producer Brian Rokus. He was one of the most energetic and hilarious people I’ve ever met, and he unfailingly transmits his energy whether you try to soak in it or not.

He also discarded the narrow view of journalism I held for a long time. Journalism is stereotypically portrayed as a boring office job with personal opinions disguised as newsworthy stories. However, I have never seen someone as excited about their job as he is, especially due to the exposure he’s had abroad. He gave us insight into some of the stories he has covered, such as 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina, and he discussed the inconveniences and challenges he has faced along the way while covering stories of that magnitude. 

I’ve also learned that broadcast journalism is not only about catastrophic events, even though it is usually interpreted that way. Rather, it is more about humanizing stories in order to show people that there are issues out there that need to be addressed. Although broadcast journalism is not my specific area of interest, Rokus’ enthusiasm inspires me to at least consider it, and also encourages me to work on my communication skills, which are vital regardless of what career I decide to pursue.

Become the change in the world

By Laura Nunez (Los Angeles, CA) 

I have never been so exhausted and satisfied with myself at the same time. I am amazed at the potential this group has and how we have managed to keep our sense of wonder alive despite minimal sleep and back-to -back workshops. Needless to say we are producing amazing pieces, having genuine communication, and meeting very inspiring professionals. This program has helped me reignite my interest in foreign affairs and it has reminded me of why I am so passionate about social justice. 

Politics are complicated, but being ignorant of what occurs in the world deprives us of our freedom, so we must make an effort to at least begin understanding what is going on around the world. All countries are interdependent whether it is economically or diplomatically, and as citizens in a democracy we can influence legislation in ways we can't imagine. The work I have done so far in this program has given me a clearer view of my potential and how I have the diligence and control to learn from any circumstance.

On another note, I believe inspiration can immensely transform people: it can give one a sense of empowerment and responsibility to create a better world for those who come after us. My biggest problem throughout high school has been remaining inspired and finding ways to give everything I have to offer and everything I have learned to my immediate community. It is easy to become sucked in by routine mundaneness, and many times I could feel myself burning out. This program has helped me realize that things we are passionate about are not a waste of time and that we grow from everyone we meet. Most importantly, this journalism program has made me realize that I have so much in common with people who live thousands of mile away from me and I know that these individuals will be lifelong friends and advisers. Cheers to lifelong learning and to SJP! 

A homecoming

By Tonya Riley (Brown University '15/ SJP '10)

Alumni counselors give a pep talk

“(since it will be a while before I get a six-figure book deal, I'm dropping a hint that you should totally invite me back as a counselor after I start college...)" 

This statement, which I tacked on the end of my long thank-you letter to the directors after my time as a student at SJP in 2010, turned out to be true on both accounts. Unfortunately being a student and an intern is the antithesis to the life of a lucrative writer. Fortunately, however, I was asked to return as a counselor. It's hard to believe that it has only been two years since I was sitting in Friend Center, being initiated into the world of ideas.

Compared to the alumni of the program who are now seasoned counselors, I feel just as inexperienced teaching workshops as I did sitting in them. I sometimes find myself almost raising my hand at questions like “What is journalism?” but then remember that I am no longer a student (only in the context of this program, of course). I realize now is my time to sit back and let my curiosity and ideas guide and coax our new students into expressing their own.

In some ways it's hard to imagine being as young as the students, to remember how differently I viewed myself and the world before SJP. (Having read my application last night, I can say that I apparently thought “breathless tears” was good writing once upon a time – yikes.)

Nostalgic conversations with the six fellow counselors who attended the program my year has helped jog my memory of my incredible ten days at SJP when I was seventeen. Waxing poetics aside, the camaraderie I have shared with these people since the 2010 program has sustained long past the final banquet and is now furthered by our hopes and worries as freshly-dubbed mentors. Whether it is the collective memory of meaningful workshops during our year or laughing over inside jokes (of which there are plenty), this nostalgia drives me to make sure this year's students get the most out of their experience. And it's the chance to be a mentor that brought me back this summer.

Students on the last night SJP 2010

A new community

Darquis Williams (Memphis, TN)

Can you imagine growing up in a place where all the people in your community are consumed with violence, hate, and hopelessness? Just picture it, you come to school and kids are bragging about the amount of drugs they got their hands on or the person they shot or gunned this weekend. I often wonder, where are the people that love one another and care about the world?

I signed up for this program to learn about journalism, but I already have met amazing people that have dramatically impacted my life. The counselors are great and come from multiple backgrounds and they actually care. I have had a lot of friends my entire life, but we never have something in common. This has been an amazing experience and it is nice to meet kids that care about the world, young people who value life and have opinions. I truly am not used to meeting people that I have so much in common with so it’s harder for me to open up.

Music and journalism

David Peake (Chicago, IL)

Music and journalism. Do they tie into one another? This question always leads me astray, but now I can answer it. Journalism and music are both forms of expression that can lead to overall enlightenment. An excellent speaker, Daphne Brooks, gave me a new insight: music and journalism share a relationship that brings forth beauty.

Journalism is nothing more than a form of expression; music, too, is nothing more than a form of expression, displaying they are actually parallel. If not for Brooks, then music would live in one world and journalism would live in another. Brooks in her lecture brought worlds (music and journalism), together, making them collide, creating a new perspective – music and journalism are key to the same door: expression. Because of Brooks, I will ultimately carry two important keys with me forever: music and journalism.

A journalist's illness

By Sherese Morgan (Yonkers, NY)

As I play with my keys, running my index finger along the ridges and squeezing it tightly in the palm of my hand, I realize I have an illness. The metal starts to burn and my palm gets sweaty. This illness seems incurable and seems to be spreading rapidly throughout my body like cancer.

I am suffering from writers block.

The last four days at SJP have been absolutely and undeniably amazing. Everyday is an adventure for me and I find myself in certain situations that I never would have faced if I had not attended SJP. As the days progress it only seems to get better. The college admission workshops have allowed me to see my path to college more clearly. I have gained a lot more confidence in applying to prestigious schools that I had once considered as out of my reach.

I’ve also found the speakers to be inspirational. Melvin McCray spoke with SJP students on Sunday. I thought his lecture was uplifting. He said all the things I needed to hear, but he wasn't the only one. This evening for dinner we had Daphne Brooks as our guest speaker. She was full of energy and at the very end of her lecture she was swarmed with students and counselors craving for her insight on certain things. Her words allowed me to realize that if I worked hard and had a passion for what I did I could have a very successful career.

Between the amazing guest speakers who encourage us to fulfill our dreams and teach us that following our dreams can be rewarding, and the workshops that challenge us to test our limits, I can’t understand why I am suffering from writer's block.

As this illness consumes my body I am becoming a lot more discouraged. I find myself staring at the computer screen, looking down at the keyboard or even reverting back to playing with my keys, running my index finger along the ridges.

Becoming part of the SJP family

Marco Rivas (Los Angeles, CA)

One of the biggest things that stands out about SJP has to be the sense of family. I come from a small, Catholic school, Bishop Mora Salesian High, that promotes a sense of brotherhood and family. In my three years there, I have learned the importance of these two themes. Thus, I am really happy that this program can replicate such an environment.

On Friday, I instantly could sense the openness and warmth radiating from the counselors and the students alike. Then and there, I thought that this program was going to be something special, and it has been. So far, with only a couple of days into the program, I have already made great friends. In all of them, I see qualities that I appreciate: they are smart, funny, responsible and respectful. It’s really great to see people of different cities, races, genders and religions to be able to come together right away and have fun and do work.

Another great thing about this program has to be the level of intensity. In a sense, it’s a bittersweet thing. I have heard everyone say that they have been extremely tired. Nevertheless, the fatigue is worth it. The great workshops, and fun conversations make it worth it.

I’m sure that I will learn much more as the days go by. My friendships with everyone will only get better. The only bad thing I can think of is the knowledge that the experience will end.

Bilingual benefits

By Lorena Aviles (Park City, IL)

“Hay viene la blanquita.” There comes the white girl.
“Lorena? She is Chicana.”

After coming to the United States at the age of 8, I found that I had a dual identity. I was no longer perceived as just Mexican or American: I became the white girl and the Chicana.

Whenever I return to Mexico, my friends ask me to speak to them in English, and I do. I tell them something simple; they try to replicate the sounds of multiple letters intertwining with each other. When I return to Mexico to dance on the farms, I am forced to exhibit my “American side.”

Many times when I am in the United States, people confuse my ethnicity. Some claim that I look Indian. Others recognize me as Mexican American.

I am never just Lorena.

But today, as my group reported on the relocation of a local hospital, I was able to use my Spanish in order to find out about the neighborhood, the way Hispanic residents feel, and the needs of the community. I have always loved the way I roll my Rs. The sound that bursts out of my lips reminds me of my hometown back in Mexico. I have always treasured my ability to speak two languages, but today, the benefits of bilingualism proved to be vital.

As I walked around Witherspoon Street, I asked people for a second of their time; their eyes changed as they realized I spoke Spanish. Some walked away, claiming they had a bus to catch or a job to go to or something else they needed to take care of. Some stayed, answered my questions, and gladly expressed their opinions.

In the land of freedom, the land of immigrants, and the land of lucky chances, bilingualism is a wonderful tool and an identity shaper, a common trait and a form of assimilation.

My advice: rebel. Speak the language of your blood and of your land, of your heart and your mind. Speak
for yourself.

Discrepancies

By Kimberly Cionca (Bronx, NY)

I like to think I'm accustomed to asking questions, getting a story, and conducting an interview, but when I had to unravel the juicy story for my feature piece, I underestimated what was to come my way. It was like the classic "he said, she said" scenario, where you get a certain storyline from one subject, but it just doesn’t seem to correspond with the information you’ve gathered from your other subjects.

We were covering a story about a local hospital that had been relocated from a low-income community to a wealthy area. Fellow students Makenna, Darquis, Lorena and I interviewed Committeeman Lance Liverman; disappointingly, our briefing did not take longer than 4 minutes.

Committeeman Liverman was generally optimistic and grateful for the relocation. He explained that the hospital had wanted to expand, but it couldn’t because the surrounding homes were at risk, and Princeton Township had a restriction on how tall a building could be built. Their business wasn’t going too well either. Therefore the University Medical Center of Princeton was moved to Plainsboro in May and is now known as the University Medical Center of Princeton at Plainsboro. Amusing, right?

But today I was able to do something that wasn’t in my journalistic nature: to get more perspectives on the same exact story. This time some details just didn’t match up. For example, Committeeman Liverman had blissfully announced that the councilmen of Witherspoon had negotiated an admirable deal with the hospital board: residents of Witherspoon county would receive free transport to and from the new clinic.

However, when we interviewed Reverend Muriel Burrows at Witherspoon Presbyterian Church, she disclosed that she hadn’t even known about this free transportation. In addition, when Lorena spoke to some local residents, she found that many of them hadn’t known about it either.

Even if these discrepancies turn out to be minor, I still have the opportunity to investigate.

So whose story is right? 

Getting through writer's block

By Renan Meira (Queens, NY)

I have a huge difficulty making decisions for myself. Perhaps it’s because my mind tends to generate a lot of ideas at the same time, and sometimes I get lost. Whenever somebody asked me what I wanted to write about on my first blog at SJP, I would say, “ I have an idea...” even though I was never really sure.

So here I am in front of PC5181 (which is actually a Mac computer and not a PC), staring at the cursor trying to find a way to start this. Then one of the counselors approaches me and asks me if I need anything. Before we even know it, we are having this very interesting conversation about how important it is to let our thoughts out. Not necessarily by sharing them with anyone, but by using the power of writing to be intimate with yourself.

The conversation comes just a few hours after the amazing talk we had with professor Daphne Brooks who teaches English and African-American studies at Princeton University. She touched upon the idea of using writing as a tool for developing self-respect and to liberate our minds from its own confusions. The bottom line was that a good way to start is by actually starting.

However, that start (which I was able to successfully achieve in this post) would be much harder if we didn’t have the help we are getting from all the counselors. They have certainly been the biggest surprise of this program so far. I could have never imagined that I would feel so comfortable talking to them as equals, as real friends, as I did in these first days of the program.

“We want you to be as proud as we are of you,” one of the counselors said. I think that is very valuable, because we see that they really care about us. Also, the fact that so many of them came back to the program as counselors shows how the program creates this community of mutual help.

The experience of meeting all the counselors and feeling so connected to them is one of the aspects of SJP that I will remember for the rest of my life.

As for myself, I will try to make them as proud as I can in the future.

The power of ambition

Chemi Chemi (SJP '12) in Prospect Garden

By Chemi Chemi (Brooklyn, NY)

This program has already become another support system for me, I am interested in law and I have already had the chance to talk to counselors who have worked in the legal field. I am far beyond impressed by the discussions we have had. It is almost non-stop. We can stay all up all night debating controversial issues! I couldn’t have expected more and I thank all the staff for their help in every aspect of this program. There are no words to express my gratitude and all you have done are priceless! Thank you very much for opening my eyes to journalism!

Despite the fact that SJP has been very intense, it has been an honor to have the opportunity to be part of this very special program. It’s amazing to know that each and everyone in SJP has the very vital motivation in journalism, that means so much to me personally because they have already become an inspirational source for me. Whenever I feel tired, I look up to my peers to continue striving. I am so glad that I am considering journalism for my future plans, I am loving it day to day as I meet more professionals who are journalists or others who strongly emphasize journalism as a power.

I simply love the fact that I am seeing so much cooperation between the students and knowing that counselors who actually are alumni have come back. That just shows that they have had great experiences and achieved a lot, which is the reason why they are willing to come back and donate their time and effort.

An eye-opening start

By Karen Oropeza (Fort Worth, TX)

During our group discussions today, our counselor Amanda Cormier (SJP '07) said that one of the beauties of being an undergraduate student was that you oftentimes learn more from your peers than you may from your professors. As this thought sunk in my mind, I quickly began wondering how and in what manner this would happen once I go to college next fall.

It did not take long to affirm Amanda’s statement.

The ethical dilemma discussion at the end of the day opened my eyes, literally to a new world, all because I was able to hear from other students’ perspectives. A lot of my peers raised arguments that would have never occurred to me, and I am completely enamored with the fact that THEY allow me to also view things differently, and that is in fact the duty of a journalist. I learned at the beginning of the Summer Journalism Program that it was established with the goal of diversifying newsrooms in the United States because it was very “white,” and this discussion allowed me to realize its importance.

There is unquestionably a diverse America that I had not experienced in my hometown in Texas, and I am beyond grateful that SJP has removed the blindfold from my eyes, within two days.

On worthwhile tiredness

By Makenna May (Coeur d’Alene, ID)

I knew that I would most likely suffer from sleeplessness and experience fatigue. And yes, that has been true. But it is what I didn’t know to expect that has made these first three days at Princeton nothing short of phenomenal.

First of all, the way that SJP has welcomed us in has been amazing. The counselors have repeatedly told us that SJP is like a big family, and it is true that everyone is so welcoming and kind—directors, counselors, and students alike. I made friends and felt at home right away. The directors bring their spouses, and many former students return as counselors to spend the 10 days with us.
The atmosphere of optimism and inspiration is what has surprised me the most. The counselors and directors are confident in us and truly believe we can excel in the nation’s best colleges. It has been such an honor to be surrounded by Ivy League alums and current students, giving me fresh energy with which to enter my senior year. We have already heard from Brian Rokus '99 of CNN, who shared his experiences covering 9/11, Hurricane Katrina and the shootings at Virginia Tech. Last night, Griff Witte '00 of The Washington Post told us about his career as foreign correspondent and about the time he has spent in Pakistan, Afghanistan and the Gaza Strip. Melvin McCray '74 shared his experience producing and editing documentaries for ABC News. He encouraged us to dedicate ourselves to our passions and to do the work we need to excel in those fields. His message that “life is so much more fulfilling when you follow your passion” is thrilling because here at SJP we are gaining the resources to do just that.

I never before considered myself capable of such great accomplishments as these, but the SJP community is determined to help us achieve our goals. The one-on-one meetings about college admissions and personal attention from college counselors are such gifts. It is so fun to get to ask counselors about their experiences at Ivy League schools and have them encourage us to apply to their schools!

So yes, there is fatigue and we could all use a bit more sleep. But the excitement and optimism of everyone here is more than sufficient to carry us through the rest of the program.

Off for adventure

By Chastity Salis (Bronx, NY)

“Chas, I’m not going to cry,” she said.

Silence loomed, screamed within our minds.

I look deeply into her eyes,

took a deep breath and said Goodbye.

Before I turned to push the door

I turned to her, held her once more.

“Mother, I’m doing this for you.”

Her eyes quickly filled in honesty, so true.

Our looks spoke soul to soul,

Mines told hers … I’m going to go.

My aspirations became clear, early that day,

as I left home and faced the streets

I had no words, no right feelings to display

the desperate eagerness with my fingers to release my soulful beats.

My mind was made. I had to leave.

Shoved up my fear in my sleeve.

Princeton … a well known place spoke a dream

It spoke no lies, and plotted not a scheme

Princeton, whose legacy proclaimed itself proudly

inspires me to smile proudly...

At this chance to be here

to rise above my fear,

to get a chance I’ve not known

to get a time where my poetry’d be shown.

Look at far, I’ve grown

simply within 2 days ….

I look back in pure joy, look at the many ways

I’ve got this chance to learn

far beyond things I know.

Sometimes I feel marked and burned

from the paradox within my society … yet I don’t show.

But this allows me to see,

behind of what’s promoted on papers, radio … tv.

I actually get the chance to be,

the real girl, the real me.

I’ve met many new friends

Whose curiosity, like mine, never ends.

Words, I’ve learned can really influence our world …

and that’s something I’ve never realized,

yet it’s handed to me … unwrapped and uncurled.

On challenges, ethical or weather-wise

By Angela Kim (Los Angeles, CA)

Today was the third day of SJP, and I have already learned about so many aspects of journalism that I had never thought about thoroughly. Two of the workshops especially stood out to me. One of them was the first workshop, called “What is Journalism?”.

I have participated in a lot of journalism programs before SJP, but I didn’t have an opportunity to discuss controversial elements of journalism in the way that I did in this workshop. I really enjoyed learning about my fellow students' thoughts on challenging issues such as bias and ethics.

I also enjoyed the breaking news workshop, led by Brian Rokus '99 of CNN. It was very engaging and the stories that Rokus told about his experiences especially captured my attention. I really liked his stories about reporting on the hurricanes and 9/11.

I’m looking forward to the activities later this week!

On the campaign trail

By Delilah Vasquez (Chicago, IL)

I had my first experience as a reporter on the second day of SJP.  The group took a trip to nearby Ewing, New Jersey to listen in on a town hall meeting hosted by Rep. Rush Holt (D-N.J.). As the room filled with constituents, I found the courage to interview a few of the attendees.

My first conversation was with an older man who was really cooperative and gave off positive vibes. However, some other people seemed irritated and one man flat out rejected my request to ask him questions. I surprised myself by not being discouraged and I proceeded to speak with other residents.
My reporting experience was enhanced when the congressman addressed the SJP group. Holt started off by advising us as journalists to educate ourselves in history so that we could better understand the present. Eventually, he took our questions. I was pleased when he not only addressed my question, but clearly answered it.

Missed planes and learned lessons

By Amy Char (San Francisco, CA)

My flight to SJP departed from San Francisco International Airport at 10:48 a.m. on a surprisingly clear and fog-free morning. I even had a flight buddy—Makenna May from Idaho—with whom I had bonded earlier after we discovered a shared love for pineapples and the New Zealand Indie pop band, The Naked and Famous. We had been emailing each other for a month before the program began, so I was looking forward to meeting her at the gate.

Too bad the flight took off without me on board.

I was still in the check-in line when my plane left. The self check-in line was longer than I had ever seen it. Several travelers who apparently did not know how to use the machines held up the line. Frustrated, I joined a group of unhappy travelers as we trekked to United’s “additional services” line to rebook our flights.

I can’t lie: the ordeal was stressful. But as I waited in another never-ending line, I realized it was a valuable learning experience. “Expect the unexpected,” people say. Most importantly, I realized how awfully people treat airport employees. I missed my flight for a number of reasons but I couldn’t take out my anger on the employee behind the desk and start complaining and swearing like a sailor. I was polite, remembering the Golden Rule, and the employee rebooked my flight for free, waiving the $75 charge. Luckily, my second flight departed at 3:48 p.m. I managed to stay sane during my five-hour delay after I made a trip to In-N-Out Burger for brunch.

Fear breeds friendship?

By Maryam Asjad (Jersey City, NJ)

On my way to Princeton University, I did not, for a minute, think that one of the topics I would bond over with people would be reminiscing the SJP application process. But there I was, standing in a group of about seven of my peers, as we had our first lunch at SJP. Over Papa John’s pizza, we discussed the fear and the intimidation we had to face during the interview part of the SJP application process. Sharing my experience—which was extremely horrifying, for the record—was one of the first things that initiated my friendship with many of the other students at SJP. All of us revisited the intense event leading up to our eventual SJP acceptance.

But behind all the admittance of intimidation, there was a clear note of relief and joy in my peers’ voices. It encouraged me to learn that I had not been alone in my uncertain feelings at the interview. There was a sense of home away from home that engulfed me within a few short hours of being at SJP.

And it's only the third day

 By Stephanie Frescas (Odessa, TX)

If you have ever been a prepubescent girl, you probably remember M.A.S.H. If not, the letters stand for Mansion, Apartment, Shack and House. It’s a game designed to “foretell” your future husband, job, and living arrangements, of course. It was always thrilling to imagine the best possible future for yourself; you didn’t have to limit your rose-colored visions with silly-old rational thinking, because it was just a game.

But, sadly, I have become too old for those kinds of games. With real life coming up, my head needs to be out of the clouds, and I need to put that silly-old rational thinking to good use.

I am from Mexico; my entire family is from Mexico. My parents don’t even fully understand the significance of the Ivies. The price tags make up the biggest part of their understanding.

But I understand the significance; I understand the difficulty and overwhelming competitiveness. So the big schools have always been in my mind, but I’ve slowly pushed them back with the “M.A.S.H.” dreams.

I’ve always held the ideology that anything is possible: “Ask and you shall receive.” But when I’m faced with actually having to fill out college applications and drawing up a financial plan for wherever I get in, it’s easy to be discouraged by the nagging little “realistic” downer voices in my head.

But SJP has brought back that starry-eyed fifth-grader who wasn’t afraid to dream big (as romanticized and cheesy as that may be). This time around, rational thinking doesn’t bog me down. It reinforces my aspirations, and it’s so much more rewarding that way. This program has already given me more confidence in my dreams; it’s not silly. My highest goals, my “M.A.S.H.’s,” are achievable.

A late but welcome arrival

By Jocelyn Vega (Chicago, IL)

Stepping into a room filled with students arranged in a circle, I began to flush bright red with embarrassment. I was so nervous entering the room because I arrived extremely late. But despite my worries, I found the atmosphere relaxing and friendly: I was walking into the doors of Princeton’s Summer Journalism Program, with a hunger for knowledge punching my gut.

Rushing into my seat, it only took me a second to dive into a conversation with my peers and engage in the debate. The questions of what is journalism and passion were impossible to fully answer. One day in the near future we will be truly able to answer these questions with our experience in the journalism field, an experience we will all gain as scholars, one step at a time.

Wealth in money, poverty in knowledge

By Alejandro Izquierdo (Chicago, IL)

The education system in America was known to be one of the best in the world in the mid-1900s. Since then it has dropped from its high status, losing out to countries like Finland and the new No. 1: China. For the United States to be regarded as the most powerful nation on earth, one would expect its young citizens to be some of the brightest. The United States has the world’s best economy and is the world's best military power, but ranks seventeenth in math and twentieth in reading. For a strong, rich country, these scores are pitiful.

The low test scores may explain America’s lack of engineers and scientists. We have all noticed America’s loss of manufacturing jobs, which has left thousands out of work. Yet our school system supplies the economy with more factory workers than it needs, causing companies such as Google and Apple to search elsewhere for skilled workers. If this problem is to be solved, we must reform our education system.

What is truth?

By Michelaina Johnson (Ojai, CA)

Truth is the encompassment of all perspectives that make up a moment in history. As journalists, our job is to assemble together as many of the perspective pieces of this unfathomable puzzle. Each day we add many pieces to the puzzle of our personal truth.

Through SJP, I have gained cultural knowledge and global perspective. I had thought some pieces in my puzzle were in the right place, but SJP has proved me wrong and repositioned them. The student diversity has enhanced my cultural awareness; for instance, never before had I talked to a Pakistani Muslim student about Islam. The counselors' and speakers' global points of view has also eroded my previous ignorance about international politics and its impacts.

My puzzle is far from finished, but more pieces have been put together.

The Princeton Summer Journal 2011

This year's special 10th anniversary issue of The Princeton Summer Journal is now online! 

"Happy 10th Anniversary SJP" cake presented by SJP alumni for the four founding directors at the final banquet. From left: Richard Just '01, Rich Tucker '01, Greg Mancini '01 and Michael Koike '01

The 2011 edition of The Princeton Summer Journal -- a special 10th anniversary issue -- is now online. 

Congratulations to SJP '11 students on the completion of a successful summer and hard-hitting investigative report! Welcome to the SJP family!