One of my personal greatest roles as a student is my role as editor-in-chief of The Comet. Alongside Senior Terra Allen, my day as the editor-in-chief comes with a different set of responsibilities than when I was a reporter. From managing deadlines to helping students with their writing, I am constantly thinking about what needs to be done to keep The Comet running smoothly.
When I arrive in class first thing in the morning I begin by having a pitch meeting. In the pitch meeting, each reporter explains to the editors and teacher, Ms. Emilia Caturano, where they are in the article writing process, what they need help with, and what we can do to support them. Some reporters are still finishing interviews, while other students are working on articles that need editing. My job is to help with anything the reporters need, and make sure that our classroom stays on schedule. Although it can sometimes feel overwhelming, I enjoy seeing each story come together.
In and outside of the class, I spend time reviewing articles, checking for grammar mistakes, and making sure information reported is accurate. I continue to work to help strengthen reporters’ ideas and communicate clearly with readers. Sometimes I have to make difficult decisions on whether or not we should completley change an article around.
I always like to be a support system for my classmates. As quoted from a recent Comet TikTok and Instagram reel, Junior Section Editor Rachel Pistone said, “I felt like I could go to you for anything, and ask a bunch of stupid questions, and you wouldn’t get mad, you would just answer them and help me out”
I am very proud to be a small part of such an amazing program. The Comet gives EHHS students a voice. Whether it is covering school events, highlighting student achievements, or discussing important issues, every article helps tell the story of our school community.
Of course, there are challenges. Deadlines can be stressful, especially when stories are submitted late or last-minute changes need to be made. Balancing my own article writing and schoolwork with the responsibilities of leading The Comet requires strong time management skills. However, these challenges have helped me become more organized and confident as a leader.
Ms. Emilia Caturano has worked with over 15 editors since she took over as The Comet faculty adviser. The editor-in-chief role is truly an important one and that student always becomes her “right hand.”
She shared, “Each editor is more of an expert by the end of the year than I am. They know their writers the best. They know what each student in the room needs each day and respond to their needs so effectively.” She continued, “My time with Ella over the years has been so fun. Ella is a passionate, kind, intuitive, and dedicated editor. We would not have a newspaper this year without her.” And with Terra, “She has been dynamic, engaging, and continues to challenge everyone in the room to be and think more critically.”
This year in particular, Ms. Caturano had an unexpected medical leave and knew that the class was still in good hands because Terra and I were able to take over as teachers. Ms. Caturano said, “I’m forever grateful and indebted to Ella and Terra for their incredible support this year. They really stepped in as teachers and advisers in my absence.”
At the end of the day, there is always a sense of accomplishment. Every article and piece of media represents the effort of an entire team working together. Being The Comet editor has taught me much more than how to write and edit stories. It has taught me how to lead, collaborate, and help others succeed. For anyone on the fence about joining our team, I would encourage you to try. I have learned so much about me and my interests and skills than I ever imagined.
