I've Seen Copies of Youthink...

I’ve seen copies of Youthink magazine around my school (Henry Wise Wood) since I started there, and new issues are always a big hit with myself and my friends. I started writing for the magazine after Esther Au (former Youthink liaison) did a presentation to my journalism class, and have been as actively involved as I can be ever since. Before then I didn’t have much experience when it came to writing for a real print magazine, and needless to say, I’ve learned tons over the last few months! It’s given me the opportunity to interview popular musicians, review recently released CDs and voice my opinion about all kinds of teen issues. I was also given the opportunity to write a current affairs blog for the online edition – a fun challenge, which has also really stretched my global perspective.

My experience as part of the Youth Editorial Board, which meets regularly a few times per year, has also allowed me to better understand the behind-the-scenes processes which pull each issue together (design, theme choice, etc.). One of the awesome things about Youthink is the fact that they really listen and respond to the suggestions which youth readers give them. I know that the “grown-up” faction of the staff is always interested in hearing the opinions of my peers and I.

Although I've learned lots about journalism in school, there's really nothing that compares to hands-on experience. Getting practice doing interviews, meeting deadlines and seeing other journalists in action have really improved my writing. One great experience I was fortunate to be part of, for example, was going for Youthink to a Michael Bublé press scrum he had at the Saddledome in Calgary. It put me right in the action with local TV and radio reporters, and in one hour, I picked up more tips than I think a classroom could have ever given me. I feel like if I choose to pursue a writing career down the line, my experiences with the magazine will have given me a massive head start!