Left to right, photographer Nicholas McCall, Editor-in-Chief Sasha Funes, Managing Editor Conor Heeley. (Gerard Burkhart| The Corsair)

The best learning experiences can come when you least expect it. I was fortunate enough to have an all expense paid trip to San Francisco to attend the Journalism Association of Community Colleges (JACC) and Associated Collegiate Press (ACP) conferences from March 9 to 12. I had the opportunity to attend countless breakout sessions on building one's journalistic repertoire. The sessions, led by various guest speakers from all over the country, ranged in topics from how to be a better journalist in the 21st century to diversity in the journalism world. I couldn’t have been more grateful to have attended this educational experience.

Before flying out, I lacked confidence as a leader. As a result I experienced a case of imposter syndrome. I felt like a fraud and that I didn’t belong in the position or environment I was in. Santa Monica College (SMC) is a very diverse campus. While the student body includes 41.5% Hispanic students –– last reported in 2021, the journalism field is unique. As a Hispanic female trying to pursue a degree in sports journalism, the idea that I do not belong is emphasized by how few women are in positions of influence in the journalism workforce.

Throughout my time at SMC, I’ve been able to meet students going through similar experiences. It doesn’t matter what field of study they’re in, every kind of student faces difficult challenges and growing pains. I’ve interviewed multiple student-athletes who appear confident while playing their respective sports, but tell a completely different story off the field. At the conference, I met student journalists in the same position and it really put how I was feeling into perspective.

One of the most important lessons I gained at the conference was that I earned my position by putting in hard work. I was selected because the advisors saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself. The same can apply to any student. We are all where we’re supposed to be. We put in the hard work and dedication to get us here today and I think those going through imposter syndrome should always remember that.

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