There is something strange about knowing I’m writing my final story for EHS Press. I keep thinking about all the stories that filled these pages over 4 years. Some were serious conversations about the future of our schools, local politics, artificial intelligence, and the changes shaping education and society. Others were lighter, I wrote articles about pop culture, video games, and trends. Every story mattered in its own way because every story taught me something new.

In a time where misinformation spreads quickly and attention spans grow shorter, journalism still matters because people deserve the unadulterated truth. Communities deserve people willing to ask questions, listen carefully, and tell stories honestly. Whether covering school consolidation debates, interviewing students about technology in classrooms, or writing opinion pieces on entertainment and culture, I learned that journalism is ultimately about people. It is about giving others a voice entirely separate from yourself and preserving the moments that define a community.

At the same time, journalism also gave me something personal. It allowed me to combine two things I love most: writing and learning. Every article and pursuit of a story has pushed me to understand topics I might have otherwise ignored. I learned how to interview people, research issues, meet deadlines, and most importantly, how to listen. Some of the best conversations I’ve ever had have come from simply sitting down with someone and hearing a perspective I had never considered before.

I am only the second student ever to complete four years of Mr. Carroll’s journalism program. Over the course of this program, I have grown both as a student and a writer. I’ve also grown a lot as a person.

To the future journalism students: take the class seriously, even when it feels difficult. Talk to people you normally would not talk to. Cover stories that matter, even if they are uncomfortable. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. And don’t limit yourself to one type of writing; some of the most meaningful and interesting articles are the ones you least expect to enjoy writing. Most importantly, remember that journalism is not just about getting a grade or filling space on a page. It is about curiosity. It is about accountability.

One day, you will write your own final article too. When that day comes, I hope you can look back knowing you told stories that mattered.

For the last time, this is Ava Hymes signing off.