My entire life I loved writing. I loved creating stories in my head and then writing them down in a number of journals. As I got older, I loved reading the news and seeing the stories written in the New York Times and Washington Post. While choosing a college, I looked for a place where I could write about issues important to me. I looked for a place where I could make a difference.
During my senior year of high school, Hofstra hosted its second Presidential Debate. I loved that the school was near New York City, the biggest media hub in the world, and it had an amazing communications school. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be at Hofstra while they hosted their third debate.
Being a senior at Hofstra during this time is especially rewarding. Throughout my three years here, I have grown as a writer and a person. I have new passions that I wish to explore and new issues I want to change. The energy on campus is electric. There are banners everywhere, healthy debates about the issues, keynote speakers that have worked in politics all their lives. It makes me feel as though I am finally a part of a process that I felt so distant from; a process that should include us all.
As a student journalist, this event is even more important to me. Journalists in general have an important job during election cycles and in daily life. If you don't remember governmental history, the press was meant to be the fourth branch of government, a way of keeping the other three in check in the checks and balances system. Student journalists are special in this process. We get to be a part of changing and influencing what our peers think about the issues and candidates. For me, it is a chance to write what I have been reading. It is a chance to really get in there and make a difference.
Being here during what could be the most watched debate in history and one with huge media presence, is life changing. I am nervous and excited for what is to come in the next week. Hofstra is already getting ready for the big day and I am excited to be a part of history on this campus and in the country. All eyes will be on us and we are more than ready.
