The Harvard Independent Journalism Academy welcomed CMA junior Ma’Naida Gonzalez as Detroit Public Schools Community District’s first to participate in an intense weekend of journalism studies on March 23-24.
Gonzalez embodies the spirit of pure purpose and dedication and welcomed the challenge. Gonzalez’s passion for journalism sets her aside from all the rest. When given the chance to train at Harvard, she was eager to complete the application process and was offered a full scholarship, according to CMA journalism adviser Robbyn Williams.
With admiration for editorial and business writing along with photojournalism, Gonzalez is driven to better her skills. Gonzalez set her eyes on Harvard’s high school journalism programs to achieve just that.
“I wanted to go to Harvard to train with them. I wanted to better my writing not only for me but for my fellow journalists that I have journalism class with,” Gonzalez said.
For Gonzalez, Harvard represents more than just an institution, it’s a platform to better and refine her craft to make an impact in journalism. She said she believes that by elevating her own writing, she can inspire and empower her classmates at CMA and not just those CMA but those who look up to Gonzalez.
She equipped herself for success, Gonzalez engages in practical steps recommended for high schoolers aspiring to pursue journalism. She practices writing across multiple styles and lengths, participates in writing competitions, and seeks opportunities to get published. Additionally, she has immersed herself in relevant classes and clubs, gaining first-hand experience in reporting.
At Harvard, Gonzalez engaged herself in representing diversity. She learned to attract readers with compelling one-liners sourced from quotes or ideas, and she uses her abilities to deliver essential information in an engaging manner. These skills aren’t just for her personal gain … she plans to share them generously with the journalism staff.
Gonzalez is characterized by her dedication, tireless work ethic and deep compassion. She not only prioritizes her own growth and well-being but also extends her care and concern to those around her. Gonzalez emerges as the voice, or rather, a writer for the people by channeling her passion into turning up the stories and experiences of others.
As Gonzalez’s journey unfolds, her aspirations are rooted in a desire to make a meaningful difference. She envisions a future where her writing serves as a catalyst for change, where every word she pens resonates with purpose. Ma’Naida’s journey is a reminder that success in journalism requires not only talent but also dedication.
