I used to be the editor for Butte College’s “The Roadrunner.” When I was, it was much different than it is now. Now, they have a strong social media presence, and when I was the editor, we would only ever post on my favorite days: distribution day.

The student-run publication is now almost exclusively online. I was mostly reluctant to do online issues because nothing beats a good old-fashioned newspaper, in my opinion. Regardless of the changes, “The Roadrunner” is doing great things and can lead to great places.

I was a part of the production team for two years (editor for two semesters). When I got to Butte College, “The Roadrunner” was almost non-existent because of COVID. With the support from a great team, we turned that around and consistently put out four issues (three paper, one online) with plenty of content to fill each. We put blocks in place to build the publication into what it is now.

I graduated from Butte with a degree in journalism. I switched that degree to English education with plans to become an English teacher and coach high school football—a simple but fulfilling life for me. I never thought I’d actually use my journalism degree, but opportunity came knocking, and I am now an independent sports reporter through the “Gridley Herald.”

As an independent, I essentially get to do whatever I want. I go to high school sports games (for free), get on the sideline, go to practices, and interview coaches, players, athletic directors, and principals. As long as they are in the territory (Gridley, Biggs, Live Oak, Yuba-Sutter areas), I can report on whatever I want. It’s a nice job and has made me recapture my love for journalism.

I got this job through connections—and a little bit of luck. I coach youth football and have for many years now. Through coaching, I have grown connections, and through those connections, I learned that the “Herald” was looking for a sports reporter and my name was brought up. I got an interview, was hired on, and started working almost immediately.

Some may not be in the situation I’m in—living in a small town, coaching, and being easily accessible. But working as a journalist allows you to grow connections.

My advice to someone who wants to do more than work for Chico State or Butte College would be to use those connections, and don’t be afraid to reach out. There may be a media outlet looking right now for someone with your respected interest.

My other piece of advice is to make sure you’re writing about what YOU want to write about. Journalism and writing, in general, aren’t fun if you’re being forced to write about something you’re uninterested in. Do what you want to do, and it’ll be easy.

Starting my journalism career with the “The Roadrunner” helped me blossom into the young journalist I am now. I’m not perfect, and I don’t know everything about journalism.

I do know that if you’re interested in writing or want to become a journalist, a great way to start would be with “The Roadrunner.”