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Goodbye University Chronicle, thanks
 Christine Johnson
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Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, a German writer in the 1700s once said, "Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do."
I'm pretty sure Goethe was not thinking about extracurricular activities at SCSU when he said this, but I know that what he said can apply.
As a graduating senior, who played a very active role at University Chronicle, I cannot stress enough the importance of getting involved in some type of extracurricular activity to enhance learning.
Although to some this might come naturally, to many the thought of getting involved is either nonexistent, impossible, dreadful or a faint dream. Some people might be too shy, too lazy or too preoccupied. Either way, there are few acceptable excuses in my book.
Barbara Cage, modern poet and author said, "Understand that persistence, hard work and determination are the keys to success."
Every student, whether rich or poor, should experience hard work to learn that it doesn't always have to be negative. Learning how to enjoy work can be overwhelming in the real world, but if people become involved in extracurricular activities at SCSU that pertains to their chosen careers, they may learn the hardest lessons on their own time and under far less pressure.
For example, I have had an entire year of experience working with a professional digital camera. Since I am seeking a full-time job in photojournalism at a daily newspaper, most of which have gone digital, I would be quite embarrassed to say that I have never held a digital camera, especially since I've had one at my fingertips all year. It would be even more embarrassing to send out resumes that included no experience in photojournalism whatsoever, especially since the field is so competitive.
If it was not for University Chronicle, I would have no portfolio, little experience with computer layout programs, limited knowledge of the newspaper industry and a very poor resume. On the other hand, with my experience, I am at least somewhat prepared for life. Another advantage gained from my experience at University Chronicle is that I can honestly say I love taking photos. If I had no experience, how could I say that I loved it?
As for hard work, some of the most memorable times spent with peers are times that we have had to work hard to get the paper out, be it with stories, photos, deadlines or simply extremely late hours.
One of the best aspects of learning on the job, is being able to knowledgeably narrow down my career decisions to photojournalism. When I started college in 1993, I was going for nursing. In 1996 I was going for horticulture; in 1997 I was going for business; in 1999 I was going for journalism; and in 2000, after shooting photos for University Chronicle, I finally figured it out.
Barbara J. Hall, a cultural anthropology author, once said, "Don't settle for second best when choosing your road to success; make sure it's the path that you believe in, and then give it your full attention."
That's exactly what I have done since I discovered my love for photojournalism. I credit my decision to my involvement. If I had decided to just learn about photojournalism and never practice it, I would be hopelessly lost and under-experienced.
Fortunately, today I am neither.
Ralph Waldo Emerson, a writer in the 1800s said, "The reward of a thing well done is to have done it."
This issue of University Chronicle is my last. I will be graduating from SCSU May 11, and at this point, the best part of being actively involved in an extracurricular activity at SCSU is the satisfaction gained. Today, I can honestly say that I will miss the people who I worked for and with � because I have actually done it.
Christine Johnson can be reached at: [email protected]
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