Every year, my yearbook staff goes to a college yearbook camp to get our theme for our book and develop templates, end sheets, dividers, folios, swatches, photo packages--basically anything we need for the upcoming year. This year we went to Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Michigan. This was the first year we went to this specific workshop. Also, this was my first year as a top editor, so this experience was definitely something to remember.

I was definitely more involved this year at camp. I was given the opportunity to develop and create our templates for the year. I love graphic design, so I was ecstatic to be able to do this job. I felt like I was able to show my creative side to my two Editor-in-Chiefs and showcase what I can really do. I also felt more like a leader, I was finally able to help lead the other staffers who went.

I was also given the great opportunity to talk to and be inspired by well-known, successful yearbook advisers Steve Kent and Lynn Strause. Both are extremely successful and have obtained Pacemaker and national awards with their staffs. Listening to them, gaining the advice and knowledge from them was a true privilege. My staff was able to talk to both of them one-on-one for ideas and feedback for our upcoming book. Listening to legends like them was absolutely amazing because they went on to be successful in the field that we are currently working in. They know what they are talking about and we were happy to listen and gain feedback from what they had to say.

The best part; however, was getting closer with my staff. From the early morning classes, the long walks to eat, lectures, to the late night talks, we all grew closer. We now have inside jokes, and this inseparable bond. We chose to spend four whole days together, with no breaks. I feel that’s amazing. We aren't just a staff, we’re a family. I am proud to call these people my best friends. We spend a majority of our days together in school, but to be able to go away with them and work on something we all care about is such a unique experience. We are so lucky to be a part of this. Being close with your staff is so important, we gained communication skills and a real connection. I cannot wait to see what this year will bring for us.