What It Took: Writing a Series

Over the years of writing I have learned a lot, but learning is never ending. When I started this “What it Takes” series, I was just eight years old. In the past two and a half years, I have learned a lot about writing.

For example, when I started, it took me a long time to sort through notes and write a meaningful article. Now I can do it very easily (as long as I do not procrastinate too much). The hardest part about being a writer is managing the time and energy needed to bring a piece together.

Then there’s procrastination. I have learned how to somewhat take care of this, by putting constant reminders in front of me of what I should be doing, instead of reading or playing Xbox. There’s a part of me that is like a nagging sibling reminding me to just do it. I can compare this to that eight-year-old who needed Mom to remind him that he has an interview to do, to see just how much I’ve grown.

The only reason I have gotten this far is because of two things: my mom’s encouragement, and support from you, my readers. I have to be honest, if my mom hadn’t helped me in interviewing, organizing and editing, the “What it Takes” series would have died before the first article was even thought of.

She helped me to develop the skills which allowed me to start this project by helping me develop skills outside of school. Rather than getting involved in athletics, I learned how to have conversations with adults, and learn about the roles each plays in our community.

She also taught me how to smoothly make changes on a subject, ensuring transitions are not chunky. I even learned how to write about subjects I am not comfortable with or interested in.

If it was not for you, the readers, who reached out to tell me how much you appreciated my stories, I would have never known. I might have quit writing all together. Luckily you, the readers, supported me and I continue writing for the paper.

Now you may be wondering why I am saying all of this. The answer is, I am moving on from “What It Takes.” I will be covering community events by writing articles and creating photo stories. It is an exciting opportunity, and I will take it. This is a task that I feel up to because of what I have learned while writing this column. By writing about subjects ranging from college students and horse handlers, to managing an election and maintaining the city roadways, I have seen and gained a lot of knowledge and experience.

Early this year, I joined the yearbook staff at New Rockford-Sheyenne School and began taking my camera to school to capture daily life in the elementary wing. I also had the privilege of being invited to take photos at prom. I arrived just after 4:00 p.m. to take pictures of what it looked like in the light. After that, I got to be right next to the spotlight. During the grand march, I took pictures for the yearbook and even had one published in last week’s paper.

All this photo taking and writing is a great experience, and it will also look great on my college applications. Hopefully it has inspired other young people who might like to continue the series "What it Takes" and find their calling. Thank you all. I will see you around.