Chiming in: Convene at a convention

A collection of photos showcasing student media and news organizations present at the Fall College Media Convention in Atlanta on Oct. 31. (photos by Rakiyah Lenon) At the top left, Rakiyah Lenon, editor in chief for The Bell Ringer, speaks at a convention workshop. (photo by Rachel Balducci)

By Rakiyah Lenon | Editor in chief

Whatever your chosen career path and professional or personal interests might be, knowing that there are others you can look to makes all the difference.

Last month, I was able to attend the 2023 Fall National College Media Convention in Atlanta, hosted by the College Media Association and Associated Collegiate Press.

As a student editor and journalist, it was a surreal experience to be surrounded by so many others who do what I do, from all different parts of the country. I was also glad to represent Augusta University in the midst of all the institutions that were present. In a way, it broadens the world, while showing how small it can be at the same time.

For college students with immense workloads and packed schedules, the idea of attending a convention, especially on a national level, can seem like an overwhelming task. Conferences usually span several days and often they require travel.

However, the benefits cannot be overlooked. For me, I gained new ideas and inspiration through seeing how other students report stories.

I also found a sense of encouragement. At times, it is easy to feel as if you are the only one in your particular area of discipline or work, but a convention shows the exact opposite.

In seeing how I was greatly motivated by my trip to the convention, I can’t help but think of how helpful it would be for all students to attend at least convention or conference during their time in college.

I encourage you to look up associations, conferences and conventions that interest you. The National Student Nurses Association, Society of Physics Students and College Art Association, are just a few examples of groups for students of respective majors.

By doing so, you can learn, network and take away a greater sense of belonging.

Contact Rakiyah Lenon at rlenon@augusta.edu.

This story is published in the Monday, Nov. 27, 2023 print edition of The Bell Ringer on page 2.