Vae O’Neil, A&E Editor
Well hi there, my name is Vae. My pronouns are They/Them. I’m now well into my second year at Schoolcraft, where I’ve so far settled nicely into my own personality and identity, two things I’ve never had the pleasure of owning. Though there is one thing that stuck with me from before my acquisition of an ego to now: a passion for writing. (Note that I didn’t say good writing; it’d be best if you keep your expectations low. More pleasant surprises that way.) For that reason, I tried out for the Connection at the first opportunity during my first semester and have kept the mantle of Arts and Entertainment Editor ever since.
I’ve learned a bit about journalism in the Connection - not only the technical bits, like formatting AP Style, editing processes - but also the parts that were new experiences for me. First off was our office (which is currently vacant to my knowledge, unless there are squatters.); nearly all the team worked in there, and it quickly became synonymous with comfort and safety as I befriended the team. I think the newspaper has become something that I’ve never had before - to the extent of my frail memory, that is. I’ve learned the exact value and importance of a team of friends. (I’ll give you a hint - it’s not nearly as much as the military budget)
Though journalism satisfies a long-unscratched itch of mine, in the deepest recesses of my logy little sponge of a heart lies the dream of becoming a published writer; preferably one that has earned a profit in both coin and their own character development. Such a dream is as tangible as the moon; sure, some people have managed it successfully, but there are many more whose luck didn’t pan out so well. I’ll probably end up trying anyway. Heck, even the journalism sphere is uncertain these days, with it being a freelance brawl-pit where writers throw their hats in the ring for a chance to win the days’ job.
I’ll probably end up trying anyway. Despite my pessimisms. I guess that’s another thing I’ve learned during my time at the Connection, or maybe just during my time attending Schoolcraft; that working with the best effort you can muster, regardless of outcome, likelihood, or hopefulness is an emotionally economical decision. Worst thing that can happen is that you don’t impress yourself.
Anyway. I look forward to writing you for this winter semester - maybe the next one after that, and after that, who knows...
You can contact Vae at [email protected].
