By Alessia Anderson, Isobel Chambers and Erin Longney
To welcome the new leaders, and allow some insight into their values, we've asked a series of questions related to their drive and motivations. Through the interview format, the girls have explained their connection to the newspaper and their goals for The Mary Word.
What excites you about being editor-in-chief?
Erin:
I am excited to see the paper evolve and to continue to work with the other editors to develop new initiatives and concepts for The Mary Word. We have already been brainstorming some really exciting ideas, many of which we have already begun implementing, so I’m super keen to see the direction the paper takes in 2021. It’s also very exciting to see the number of new members we have seen joining the team at The Mary Word - hopefully, there’s many more to come in 2021.
Isobel:
I am very excited, yet equally daunted, with the opportunity to continue the legacy of the newspaper. I personally believe that this is an outlet for students to engage with their passions, and overseeing this growth and joy is something quite enjoyable. I am also looking forward to working alongside this very talented, dedicated and insightful team.
Alessia:
I am beyond excited and honoured to work alongside Issy and Erin to lead The Mary Word over the coming year. The Mary Word is such a creative and vibrant community, and I am eager to watch our talented team grow throughout the year. I am looking forward to our new initiatives, learning from my amazing peers and connecting with the entire Loreto Community. We can’t wait to bring you our first edition as editors-in chief!
How does The Mary Word contribute to life at Loreto?
Erin:
The Mary Word is an important avenue for student voice at Loreto, allowing girls the chance to write about issues they are passionate about and have a keen interest in. The Mary Word regularly provides insights into aspects of Loreto life, including extracurriculars and key school events, and therefore it is an important tool for students who want to learn more about our school, and the opportunities available.
Isobel:
I believe that The Mary Word continues a longstanding tradition that stems beyond its own publication beginnings. It not only brings joy to the Loreto community but gives each member a feeling achievement in their individual contribution. Overall, I think that the display of news relevant to Loreto girls is also inspiring to girls who may want to work in a similar field after school.
Alessia:
The Mary Word is an intrinsic part of life at Loreto. It touches on many cornerstones of our community, everyday life and our Loreto values. There are articles to inform the reader, make the reader laugh and to gain a greater insight into the wonderful traditions that make our school the wonderful place that it is. The Mary Word also stands as a historical account of events and happenings over the years, as well as a snapshot of what was significant to the student body at specific moments in time.
Why are newspapers important? Are they still relevant?
Erin:
Newspapers are vital in shaping our understanding of important world issues, and in the case of The Mary Word, in informing Loreto girls of topical school events. The sharing of stories is fundamental to society, to ensure we can learn, grow and enrich our knowledge.
Isobel:
To me, there is nothing that will ever become ‘irrelevant’ about the news. As it is always evolving, progressing and developing, there will always be something new to explore. Furthermore, with the projects launched by The Mary Word, I think it is even more relevant to our audience, in a new sense of relatability and humour.
Alessia:
Reading a ‘newspaper’ still has a special something. It is indescribable and made all the more special as we all have a personal connection to some of the stories and people behind the stories in The Mary Word. Reading about issues that are important to other Loreto girls will never go out of style and I think the way that each article connects with the audience in different ways, makes it completely relevant.
How do you think this experience will prepare you for life after school/ future pursuits?
Erin:
Being a part of The Mary Word has taught me vital skills that will prepare me for future school tasks, and life outside of school. As part of the team, it is important to be collaborative, cooperative and considerate, in order to ensure the paper runs smoothly. It is important to listen to each other's ideas and to create an environment where everyone feels like their voices are heard. Of course, time management and organisation are imperative when organising a newspaper - I know all of these skills will be valuable learning experiences and will prepare me for future endeavours.
Isobel:
Once out of school, I am very interested in the humanities for a career. Whilst I am not quite set on a specific path, writing, researching and investigating are common amongst the courses that I am looking at. I think that it is also teaching us new skills, like podcasting and video editing, that will be beneficial in current digital journalism. Overall, I think one of the biggest takeaways from the experience so far is the sense of collaboration. Yes, it’s necessary for workload, but I really believe The Mary Word team exemplifies the goals of collaborative work, and this is something that I will strive for in future work.
Alessia:
Working on The Mary Word since Year 7 has already taught me so much. I can only imagine what I will learn this year. Working in such a dynamic, collaborative team teaches me so many skills, as well as leading and guiding younger students and helping them to find their voice, is something that I am very excited about. I know that everything I will do and learn will help me, not just in my career, but as a person. There is definitely the element of time management, being organised, learning new technical skills and persisting when things become challenging, but it is these moments that shape who we are. I cannot wait!