When my journalism professor at Long Beach City College first presented me with the idea of applying to NextGen, I laughed him off. While I was confident in my writing, I wasn’t so sure that I had what it takes to produce an entire news segment with an audio component. Moreover, I really struggled with the theme of home. Every idea that I had seemed to miss the mark.
At the time of my application, I had already been in contact with Anthony Ammons about possibly using him as a source for a story with my college’s newspaper. As I thought more about his story, I realized that it was deserving of a larger audience. I took a leap and decided to pitch it to NextGen, taking a more ambiguous approach to the idea of home. As a formerly incarcerated man, I thought Anthony would have great insight into the process of finding his way home, physically and emotionally.
Through the process, Anthony’s vulnerability and trust in me has been so inspiring. Aside from the technical skills I’ve gained throughout this process, I have come away with a new appreciation for staying present.
The morning of our interview, Anthony texted me, “Good morning! It’s a beautiful day.” I looked up from my computer and peered out the window. I smiled because he was right.
Throughout the week, I found myself seeking out moments to sit and take in my surroundings. I am so proud of the work that I have done and of how I have evolved as a person. This experience has meant so much to me. I hope to align myself with more opportunities to tell meaningful stories as I continue on my path in the world of journalism. In some small way, the people I have met and the things I have experienced during this week have weaved themselves into the fabric of my being forevermore.