For three years, I have experienced a world that many fear and misunderstand: the world of journalism. The reason that many people fear journalism is because it requires interaction with others on tight deadlines. I experienced this fear firsthand in a journalism class during my sophomore year in high school. I was neither outgoing nor involved, so I decided to try something new.

At first I was scared to interview people. I didn’t want to mess up. Then something happened that I didn’t expect at all: I loved it. I loved its quick pace and writing style. The next year I wrote for my high school newspaper, The Chip, as a staff reporter. It was new to me, but I learned quickly. This allowed me to stand up to lead others. I was named the Editor-in-Chief for the next school year.

As Editor-in-Chief, I recruited 21 members, gained valuable leadership ability and interviewed state officials, including former Missouri Governor Matt Blunt. I went from being the shy kid in the back of class to the outgoing kid who takes charge. As a result of my newfound attitude, I became a more predominant leader in other activities.

I entered Saint Louis University as an aerospace engineer, wanting to build the technology of the future. Once again, journalism was about to transform my life. During Welcome Week, I meet Adam, the Editor-in-Chief, and Brigid, the Chief Copy Editor, of The University News. Once again, I joined without expectations for change.

I instantly loved my experience writing and being with the staff. It was like a family, and I was able to meet and interview people I would never otherwise have the opportunity to meet. This year, I have been privileged to interview Bill Nye “The Science Guy,” Paul Begala and Mike Huckabee.

At the end of first semester, I switched my majors to Communication and Environmental Studies. Journalism taught me that you don’t have to be an engineer or a doctor to change the world. Time after time, journalism has changed my life in unexpected ways and has made me the person that I am and truly want to be.

As the only freshman on the Editorial Board, I sometimes feel out of place like I should be out partying on Wednesday nights instead of producing a newspaper.

But journalism isn’t just an activity. Without journalism, I may still have been that kid in the back of the class, scared to talk or be noticed. Journalism allows me to have a voice and to meet some amazing people. If you get involved and outside of your comfort zone, you might also find something that changes your life for the better.

Jonathan Ernst is a freshman in the College of Arts and Sciences. He is the Assistant Copy Editor for The University News.