As graduation approaches, the KO News team has to bid farewell to the senior team. That includes senior Co-Editor-in-Chief Juliana Chipelo. Joining the newspaper in the second semester of her sophomore year, Juliana has been an integral member of its production as she’s led the staff.
Juliana knew after her first feature article that she was a huge fan of journalism. “I love the class, and I would definitely recommend that a lot of people take it,” Juliana said. “That’s where I wrote my first features piece about Mr. Hegeman and his love for Stickleback, and I think that’s when I really fell in love with writing for the newspaper and features writing. Getting to talk to people and share their stories and their passions was truly special. I figured out that I loved interviewing people and getting to see a sparkle in their eye when they’re talking about something they’re really passionate about.”
Growing up, Juliana always loved to write, and the KO News let her share her love. “I knew I wanted to take journalism, and I wanted to take it as soon as possible,” Juliana said. “I honestly wish I had taken it freshman year, but I ended up taking it sophomore year. I was able to carry that love of writing through that class and have my writing style be refined to fit a newspaper voice. From then on, I think my love for writing and interacting with my community has only grown.”
When thinking about her time spent writing for the paper, Juliana is grateful for the effort she’s put in. “The KO News has been such a fundamental part of my time at KO,” Juliana said. “It’s allowed me to truly connect to my community through interviewing people whom I may have never talked to otherwise. Then getting to share their stories is truly an honor. I’ve also enjoyed the very collaborative vibe of the staff. I’ve met some really great people from being on the newspaper. Overall, I think the KO News itself is a community and helps bring our community together as a whole.”
Being a Co-Editor-In-Chief comes with the responsibility of writing the role’s special column each month, and for Juliana, she will remember those fondly. “I think I’ll always remember after writing one of my Wyvern’s Tales that I had thought was maybe a risky topic to talk about,” Juliana said. “Afterwards, I had a bunch of people come up to me just expressing how much they related to it. They were happy that their voice, thoughts, and experiences were seen and heard. I think being able to be a voice for my community and express my opinions and make other people feel seen, specifically with that Wyvern’s Tale, I think that’s something I’ll always remember.”
Aside from writing, Juliana also enjoyed putting together the paper on Sundays throughout the year. “I love News Days,” Juliana said. “I think they are a really great way for everyone to come together as a staff and just work through everything. You have crazy conversations and look at all the different articles. I think it’s a really fun time.”
Thank you for your time and hard work spent writing for the KO News. The staff and KO community will truly miss you. Good luck in your future, and we hope you keep writing!
