Standing in front of the Bark room as Editor-in-Chief was the last place I thought I’d find myself for the vast majority of my high school career. Just a day before my sophomore year began, I wasn’t even signed up for Nonfiction — the prerequisite class. It wasn’t until a hole opened in my schedule at the 11th hour and my mom suggested I pursue journalism that I joined Nonfiction.
During the Cub edition of my first year, I missed paste-up, where we got together to lay out pages, and had to have other Barkies cover my responsibilities. I continued to do the bare minimum throughout the beginning of my junior year, busy with the bustle of high school and treating the Bark as just another class. Until something changed.
At the National High School Journalism Convention in Boston, alongside 60 other Barkies, I learned from incredible professional journalists — namely in sports. That’s when it clicked: the ability to pursue my biggest passion, sports, in a class and potentially even as a career path is truly amazing.
But something else clicked too: On the trip, I made several new friends and strengthened bonds with old ones. My newfound appreciation for those surrounding me in the program inspired me to produce my best work.
From there on out, I was determined. I covered every available sporting event that winter. Soon, I became the sports editor and began honing my leadership skills with the same passion, leading me to where I am today.
None of this would be possible without the many opportunities the Bark provides. What other class gets to travel across the country to hear from experts in the field? Or to pursue your passion by covering high school sports? What 17-year-old gets to teach a class, creating lesson plans and leading 100 students to create their own news publication? I also give much credit to our advisor, Erin Schneider, who saw potential in me and continued to push me to do my best work.
Behind our 24-page print editions, social media posts, infographics and articles published on our website is an intertwined, tight-knit community. That’s the power of a student-led program: communal responsibility brings people together. There’s a reason Room 177 overflows with Barkies at lunch — because the environment is so accepting and kind. Barkies are recognized across campus for their articulation and ability to speak, developed through interviews, class discussion and constant conversation. I’m the prime example, growing from a shy, timid freshman to an outgoing senior leading a class full of students. 
Double bylines, late nights at paste-up and thoughtful discussions force us to truly connect with one another, creating a strong sense of unity within the Bark. More than any article written or game covered, I’ll miss those moments of connection.
My journey in journalism will continue, and covering sports will certainly fulfill me. But a Bark-sized hole will be left, as nothing can replicate the friendships and community this program has given me.
Forever grateful,
Matthew
