2024 Maryland Journalist of the Year
Reporting and Writing
I have a strong background in journalism and writing. I joined The MoCo Student, the Montgomery County Student Newspaper, as local news reporter in 2020. In school, I joined my school newspaper, The Pitch, in my sophomore year in 2021, as a staff writer. For both publications, I was later promoted to be editor and then Editor-in-Chief. My experience as a reporter and writer has laid a solid foundation for my overall journalism and writing skills.
My journalistic work on these newspapers have won prestigious awards. In 2023, my articles published in The Pitch that reviewed an animated film about climate change won second place in the Youth Journalism International Contest. More recently, a new article that I co-wrote about an unforgettable send-off on our Principal's last day before her retirement won the “Best of Sno” Award, an honor only given to less than 15% of submissions from 500+ high school and university news platforms. My opinion article about fighting against anti-Asian hate published in The MoCo Student won Honorable Mention in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Multiple articles I’ve published on The MoCo Student have been selected to reprint in the Maryland State-wide newspaper, The Sentinel.
Reporting and writing involves systematic steps, each of which requires attention to detail and a proactive attitude to uncover and communicate stories with unique angles and perspectives. The following sections describe how I approached and managed each step of the process.
Finding sources
Finding reliable and diverse sources is crucial in developing articles credible to readers. Great sources ensure my articles and stories are well-rounded and representative of different perspectives. I seek out sources through various channels, including online research, social media, local organizations and personal connections. I prioritize sources with firsthand knowledge or expertise on the topic at hand, striving to include voices that reflect the diversity of my school or the larger Montgomery County community.
I enjoy interviewing people and learning about their stories, opinions, and insights, which enhances my perspective on different issues and topics. In my articles, I aim to bring light to their stories and amplify the voices of the underrepresented or overlooked. I have interviewed hundreds of people during the past years, including:
-
Rockville City Animal Control Officer
-
Local farmers
-
Restaurant owners
-
School staff (administrators/principals, teachers, counselors, security, etc.) and students
-
School alumni
-
Montgomery Parks Foundation Executive Director
-
Substitute teachers
-
Director of the Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Department of Communications
-
Montgomery County Department of Health & Human Services Social Services Officer and Chief
-
Executive Director of Adventist Community Services of Greater Washington
-
Montgomery County Food Council Food Economy, Agriculture and Sustainability Consultant
-
Previous Olympic Trials Athlete
-
And more!
This is a photo of me interviewing Rockville City Animal Control Officer Jerry Adams in the City of Rockville Animal Control Division Office. My article was about the urban wildlife thriving in the community and becoming a larger part of humans’ lives. In our interview, Officer Adams talked about his experiences encountering different urban wildlife, including snakes, deer, foxes, rabbits, raccoons and geese, in the local area. I also asked him about his advice for community members to respond when they see urban wildlife, which was great to include in my article.
The following are three screenshots from my three-page document of interview sources for my article about Montgomery County and its government and organizations aiding Afghan refugees arriving in our community. I organized the details of various sources, like their contact information (email, phone, website, etc.) so I had a record for myself and tracked progress about our initial interactions.
Interviewing
I approach interviews with curiosity, empathy and respect. Before each interview, I conduct research on the interviewee's background and the topic of discussion, and prepare potential questions with room for follow-up questions. During the interview, I actively listen, allowing the conversation to unfold naturally while also guiding it towards the key points of interest. I strive to create a comfortable and open atmosphere that encourages my interviewees to share their stories authentically.
The photo below is a screenshot of my document in my interview preparations for my article “Surviving and thriving during the pandemic: How some local restaurants beat the odds” published in The MoCo Student. I sent an email to my neighborhood email listserv for recommendations on restaurants that had thrived during the pandemic and I contacted restaurants by calling their phone numbers and requesting a brief interview. This photo shows my call script tailored to each restaurant as well as some of my interview questions.
Below is a screenshot of my organization process of my interview requests for 20 restaurants. Some declined the interview, but I got many great interviews with restaurant owners and managers, who shared with me their thoughts and experiences on adapting to challenges in the COVID-19 pandemic.
Asking questions
Asking thoughtful and relevant questions is essential to uncovering the deeper layers of a story. I ask open-ended questions that invite my sources to share their insights and experiences in their own words. I also recognize the importance of asking follow-up questions to clarify information and bring deeper insights. My questions are driven by a genuine curiosity and a desire to fully understand the topics and events I’m exploring.
This is a photo of me interviewing Annarose Kennedy, the Community Food Rescue Coordinator of the Manna Food Center, about the countywide Farm to Food Bank program. This was a program that hadn’t received much news coverage before, and I wanted to shed light on the community work they were doing. She had just returned from visiting a farm to set up a produce delivery to a local food shelter. I absolutely loved interviewing Annarose and learning about her experiences working with both farms and food banks and seeing the impact of the program on families in need.
This screenshot below shows the interview questions I prepared before my interview with the Montgomery Parks Foundation Executive Director Katie Rictor about Montgomery Parks being at risk of a $19 million budget cut.
Researching
Research serves as the foundation of my journalism process, providing me with the context and background necessary to tell a compelling story. I approach research with rigor and thoroughness, consulting a variety of reputable sources, including news articles, academic journals, government reports and expert analyses. I critically evaluate the credibility and reliability of each source, cross-referencing information to ensure accuracy and objectivity. I also recognize the importance of fact-checking and verifying information before including it in my stories.
For example, when I wrote my article for The MoCo Student about the Montgomery County Board of Education discussing school relocations and reopenings, I did research to confirm facts and dates and hyperlinked my sources, like the excerpt below:
Storytelling
At the heart of my journalism process is the art of storytelling. I believe in the power of a narrative to engage, inform and inspire my audience. I craft stories that are not only informative but also captivating and memorable. I pay attention to narrative structure, pacing and language, choosing words and phrases that evoke emotion and paint a vivid picture for my readers. I also recognize the responsibility that comes with storytelling, striving to present diverse perspectives with fairness, balance, and integrity. My goal is to use the power of storytelling to shed light on important issues, spark meaningful conversations and make a positive impact in my school and community.
In my article “Surviving and thriving during the pandemic: How some local restaurants beat the odds,” I studied information discussed in eight restaurant interviews to create an article that highlighted local restaurants like these ones, with quotes and anecdotes.
Writing in Different Sections
I love exploring the various sections of journalism, including news, feature, arts and entertainment, opinion and sports. Each section has its unique nuances with varied writing experiences, but they all come back to storytelling. Embracing diverse sections of journalism, I am continually inspired by the endless possibilities for storytelling and the impact that journalism can have on individuals and society. Each section offers its own unique lens through which to view the world, inviting me to explore, engage and ultimately, to make meaningful journalism pieces.
​
​
News
Farm to food bank program adds nutrition to the plates of hungry families
My article highlights the Farm to Food Bank program, which bridges local farms with food banks across Montgomery County. Established in 2010, the initiative aims to provide fresh, locally-grown produce to residents facing food insecurity while supporting farmers. Through fair pricing, the program benefits both farmers and recipients. Over the years, it has significantly expanded, now involving 30 farms and over 100 food relief organizations, demonstrating potential to alleviate hunger and bolster the local food economy.
Photo courtesy of Manna Food Center
Montgomery Parks at risk of $19 million budget cut
A proposed $19 million budget cut threatens improvements and maintenance efforts across 420 parks in Montgomery County. Renovations like Wheaton Regional Park enhancements and Blair High School field updates face delays, jeopardizing community access to green spaces. Advocacy from park supporters, including testimonies during public hearings, urges the county council to reconsider.
Photo by Allison Xu
Surviving and thriving during the pandemic: How some local restaurants beat the odds
The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted Montgomery County restaurants, leading to closures and struggles for survival. Facing dining restrictions, staff shortages and supply chain disruptions, restaurants have adapted through innovative strategies and community outreach, including expanding takeout and delivery services, offering discounts, and creating a family-friendly atmosphere.
​
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
*This piece won the "Best of SNO" Award, an honor only given to less than 15% of submissions from 500+ high school and university news platforms.
Principal Jennifer Baker celebrates retirement with schoolwide clap out
As Jennifer Baker retired after over 12 years as principal of Walter Johnson HS, students and staff organized a heartfelt "clap-out” on her last day, featuring cheers, performances, and thank-you cards. Baker, emotional and grateful, cherished the community's support. The event, initiated by the Student Advisory Board, aimed to celebrate Baker's legacy and impact. Her departure marks the end of an era at WJ, but her spirit as "Mama Wildcat" remains cherished by all.
Photo courtesy of Sam Mayster
Feature
Urban wildlife thrives in WJ neighborhoods
The presence of urban wildlife in WJ neighborhoods, such as deer, rodents, birds and foxes, has become commonplace due to habitat loss. While it fosters a sense of connection to nature for many, it also poses challenges like disease transmission and property damage. My article stresses the importance of guidelines for managing urban wildlife, including promoting green spaces and educating residents on coexistence.
​
Photo by Allison Xu
Stepping into the spotlight: The Step Team takes the stage
The WJ Step Team captivates audiences with their dynamic performances, with a blend of rhythmic footwork, hand claps and spoken word. This percussive dance form, originating from African tribes, demonstrates intricate choreography and promotes self-expression. With a focus on inclusivity, the Step Team encourages all WJ students to join, creating a sense of unity and using arts to inspire and connect.
​
Photo courtesy of Mallory Striplin
International Night takes students on a journey around the world
The highly anticipated International Night, after a pandemic hiatus, showcased the cultural diversity of our school community. Attendees savored global cuisines, explored country displays, and delighted in a vibrant fashion show featuring traditional attire. Live music and dynamic dances further enriched the evening, fostering unity and appreciation for diversity. The event was organized by students and staff, who faced challenges but persevered.
Photo courtesy of Mariano Ferreira Robelledo
Arts & Entertainment
S*T*A*G*E takes the spotlight again with acclaimed “12 Angry Jurors” fall production
After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, S*T*A*G*E returned with a powerful production of "12 Angry Jurors." The play, adapted from the classic courtroom drama "12 Angry Men," unfolded on stage, drawing audiences into the intense deliberations of twelve jurors. Despite challenges, including a largely new cast, the production showcased the dedication and talent of its members.
​
Photo courtesy of Lifetouch
*This piece won second place in the Youth Journalism International Contest, Theater & Film Reviews category.
“Sad Beauty”: Consolation in wake of human demise
"Sad Beauty," an animated film by Arjan Brentjes, paints a bleak picture of a polluted world where species go extinct daily and a deadly airborne disease spreads. Yet, amidst the despair, the film delivers a profound message of hope of life persisting. Brentjes's film evokes a vivid dystopian milieu, with visuals and music to convey its message.
​
Photo courtesy of Arjan Brentjes
Opinion
*This piece won Honorable Mention in the Journalism category of the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. It was also selected to be reprinted in The Sentinel, the Maryland state newspaper.
The battle against anti-Asian racism: Thoughts on the Atlanta spa shooting and the Stop Asian Hate movements
The tragic March 16, 2021, mass shooting in Atlanta, Georgia targeting Asian American parlors, highlighted the alarming rise in anti-Asian crimes fueled by discrimination and violence. Asian American communities nationwide rallied against such hate, demanding justice and societal change. Despite efforts, the battle against anti-Asian racism persists, calling for continued advocacy, education, and solidarity to combat hate and discrimination.
Photo by Lucy Wu
Creative writing should be promoted in high school
In the age of standardized testing, creative writing often takes a back seat, seen as either wasting time or reserved for those with innate talent. Despite elective options, creative writing is often perceived as impractical compared to other subjects. This neglect contributes to a decline in writing proficiency among youth. However, creative writing offers a unique avenue for self-expression and skill development, fostering creativity, problem-solving and emotional intelligence. Prioritizing creative writing in schools can enrich students' writing abilities and cultivate essential life skills.
Illustration by Allison Xu
Why learning human geography is more important than you may think
Human geography class is more than memorizing maps. It offers critical tools for understanding our interconnected world. Students explore how geographical factors help tackle pressing issues like climate change and economic inequality. Through learning this subject, students become informed global citizens who are prepared to make positive change to the world. Human geography empowers the younger generation to shape a better world through well-researched evidence and informed action.
​
Photo by Allison Xu
Sports
Childhood passion turns into love for coaching
Jamie Grimes, a science teacher at WJ, serves as coach for the WJ Swim and Dive team. As a previous national-level swimmer, he brings invaluable experience and passion to coaching. He leads twice weekly practices at Kennedy Shriver Aquatic Center, offering technical feedback and setting practice routines. Grimes focuses on mental and physical preparedness for upcoming competitions. With high hopes for the season, Grimes encourages WJ swimmers to enjoy the journey and strive for excellence.
Photo by Allison Xu
2024 Maryland Journalist of the Year