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When I started at Fort Lewis College, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I was always getting asked the same question over and over by everyone I met: what’s your major? There are so many different choices when you arrive: majors, minors, clubs, teams, and exciting things to choose from. I had no idea where to start. So, I went with what I was always told I excelled in: writing.  

I stumbled across the Independent, Fort Lewis College’s student-run newspaper. The first day was intimidating – to say the least. But I stuck through and carried on, and I ended up loving every minute of it. The fun of working with a group on a huge project every two weeks, dedicating my time to making sure that my articles were precise and to the point, being able to hold a final copy of the magazine, and letting the student body know what was going on around our campus was so much more fun than I thought it would be.

I’ve been a part of the Independent ever since my first semester here. It has led me to many opportunities, from creating an amazing resume and portfolio, meeting people in town and gaining contacts in almost every industry, to even landing a job at the local newspaper, The Durango Herald. I ended up becoming an English-Communications major from the get go, and I have never changed majors since the beginning. Although the Independent is a requirement for my graduation, I have continued to stay on staff, now holding the position of Chief Copy Editor, for 3 ½ years.

Sadly, I just entered my last semester of college, but through the experience I gained at Independent, I have a position at a marketing company ready and waiting for me when I graduate. I have gained so much experience, in the public relations sector, marketing, journalism, social media, and more, that I truly feel prepared to go out in the real world and start my career after graduation in December.

Not everyone is fit for the Independent, but, there are so many opportunities just like it throughout our campus. From learning how to be a DJ at our local station, KDUR, or going on a service trip with Engineers without Borders or East Africa Service Project, or even participating in outdoor education through our Outdoor Pursuits program, you will learn life skills and lessons through a multitude of programs. Going to college isn’t just about taking classes; meeting new people, trying new things, and getting involved in whatever you can are top priority as well. Cheers!