My time writing for the Good Five Cent Cigar has been one of the most fulfilling experiences I have had at the University of Rhode Island. Not only has it given me a taste of what a real newsroom is like, it’s also allowed me to hone my skills. I can see improvements in my writing, my interviewing and even my research! I like to think I’ve made some friends, too.
I started writing for the Cigar in the spring semester of my junior year, or, sorry, my “third year.” I had wanted to join prior, but I was terrified. Even though it was run by people I knew and I had spent the past five semesters learning to be a journalist, I felt underqualified and like an outsider. I always have trouble joining clubs; it’s hard to get past that initial cliquey feeling.
My first story (I think) was about a luncheon hosted by the Multicultural Student Services Center. It was a simple event story, normally advertised at pitch meetings as an easy way to start reporting. I didn’t feel like it was simple, though. I was so afraid I was going to mess it up and ruin the paper for the week.
I didn’t ruin the paper and I didn’t mess up my story. My story made it into the paper, without as many edits as I feared, and I continued to pick up stories occasionally throughout the semester.
Part of what convinced me to come back was the editing team and how supportive they were. Even when I felt my articles were lacking or missing something, they left positive comments and suggestions on my writing rather than just shooting it down. Editors pointed out sentences they liked or quotes they thought were powerful. It helped me build my confidence and believe that people did actually enjoy my writing.
I wish I had joined the Cigar right when I got to URI, but there’s not much I can do about it now. I can only recommend to anyone who wants to join, join. There is nothing to be afraid of; there are no mean editors out to get you or ready to call your article crappy. The Cigar is one of the most supportive writing environments I have ever had the pleasure of being a part of, and I hope that it continues to be a safe place for student journalists.
