Dwayne Joseph Jr.
Staff Writer
Jackson State University students with a passion for communication learned how they could hone and practice their craft at the annual Student Publications Writer’s Workshop held on Aug. 29.
Over 30 eager students attended the workshop and received instruction from current student staff members, mass communication professors and Student Publications advisors.
“We felt that it was important for the newly recruited staff members to know that they have help and support from not only their peers but also from the Department of Mass Communication and the advisors who work with us daily,” said William Kelly III, a returning writer and photographer. “We are so pleased that so many people have expressed an interest in joining the various student publications that are right here at their fingertips.”
Kelly, a sophomore mass communication major from Houston, Texas, began working with the Flash as a photographer. He now writes, edits and is a student graphic designer.
“Joining the newspaper and magazine staffs was one of the best decisions I made my freshmen year. These student-run publications have allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and helped my communication, leadership and social skills,” said Kelly.
Tyvarrus Lindsey, a sophomore mass communication major from Kosciusko, Miss., plans to use his experience with Student Publications to become a videographer and photographer.
“The workshop was very informative. I felt as if the presenters really want student input and involvement. Each category was broken down in a way that was easily understood by students who have no prior experience,” said Lindsey.
Student Publications staff members held interest meetings at JSU on Aug. 26 and 27 to recruit students of all majors and classifications.
Elayne H. Anthony, director of the Department of Mass Communication, encouraged students to participate in Student Publications at the interest meeting held in the Blackburn Language Arts Building on Aug. 27.
“The first time you see your name as a byline, it does something to you because you can say, ‘I created this, I did the research, I went out and I talked to folks and I interviewed folks and met new folks.’ I can’t tell you how many people you will meet in mass communication,” said Anthony.
The workshop was filled with aspiring members as well as returning Flash members who lead discussions and helped students figure out what they wanted to do on The Flash.
Derrick Walton, a 2015 mass communication graduate and former Blue and White Flash member, was in attendance and helped welcome new staff members.
“This workshop is so important because a lot of students come here with a foundation and a talent for writing but the people at the Flash help them to cultivate this talent and become better writers,” said Walton.
It is not too late to join for those students who may have missed the interest meetings or the Writer’s Workshop. Students can call 601-979-2167, email: theflash@jsums.edu or come by the office located in Blackburn Language Arts Building, Room 208. Students interested mass communication as a major can call 601-979-2151 or stop by the office located on the first floor in the Mississippi eCenter on Raymond Road.
