More than just the rules

As my time as a journalism and mass communications major comes to an end, it is fun to look back, and see what all I have done. One thing I have learned over the years is the true identity of the comma. I learned that there is much more to grammatical structure than simply putting a comma wherever the reader should pause. I also understand that a complete sentence must come after a semicolon; a colon, however, is different. It seems that grammar is always tricky, and maybe I will forever be stumped by certain nitpicky rules. And although I might not be able to call myself a master of grammar yet, I have learned so much more than rules that can be found in a handbook.

Probably most importantly, I have learned that journalism goes beyond writing a story for a publication. The world is actually depending on the work of such a journalist. When I begin my career, someone will be coming to me for answers. That is a powerful role, but I have been taught how to handle it. Not only have I been taught that I can be successful in this field, but I now know that it is something I love.

The only thing that seems to be missing is an answer to my profession question: What do I want to do when I grow up? Yes, I like journalism, but what do I actually want to do in the field? I guess this answer is not something I will find in the classroom. It is up to me to discover where I fit into this whole picture. I guess that will come with time. I am in no hurry.

Thank you to the teachers who have made this experience so magnificent; I couldn’t have asked for better. I have thoroughly enjoyed it.