College: University of Missouri 

Major: Sports Media

“The best journalism respects the infinite dignity of the individual, and the unique blend of thoughts and feelings that go into that real, breathing life.” -David Brooks

Those words greet me as I stroll into my home away from home, SJ. Some people might see it as a normal classroom, but  for me, it constitutes so much more. It represents The Kirkwood Call.

Most importantly, The Kirkwood Call represents me. 

As a freshman in high school, I was a maestro in the science of procrastination. Always answering—“I’ll do it later” — knowing that promise would fall through. I often found myself asking a big question, “What else?” One summer day, I found the answer that would shape my life for the next three years. 

It started as a simple idea from my sister. A school newspaper? At KHS? The opportunity intrigued me. But writing? With 100 strangers? Get lost. 

After June, I finally got the courage to type out an email to the program’s adviser, Mitch Eden. Surprisingly, Eden replied saying he would be glad to accept me on staff. For the first time in my high school career, I felt excited for a KHS activity. 

My English essays were average at best. I couldn’t write. I didn’t know anyone on TKC. All I could do was wait for the first day to arrive.

Walking in, I waved to my sister, but that wasn’t the only familiar face. I also saw the TKC sports editor Tom Mueller. 

That day two years ago, I didn’t fully believe Tom when he said “You’ll have a blast on TKC.” Now, 28 stories, many laughs and many new friends later, I’ll tell anyone the same message about TKC instantly. I first read the familiar quote with unfamiliarity. Now, it’s simply a symbol of my home away from home, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.