NEW YEAR, NEW NEWSPAPER

Faithful readers,

This winter marks a new chapter for The Advocate—and, unexpectedly, a new chapter for me as well. When I returned to MHCC after a decade-long hiatus, I did so with the practical goal of learning the technical skills needed to stay relevant in my field. I never imagined that journey would lead me to serve as editor-in-chief of a paper I’ve been reading, on and off, for nearly 30 years. It’s an honor and an opportunity I don’t take lightly. 

I’ve always been a writer. Always. For as long as I can remember. I was writing even before I could actually write. My great-grandmother used to tell me that storytelling was in my blood, and I believed her. So much so that it became my mission to use storytelling as a catalyst for community connection—to champion the stories of others and amplify underrepresented voices—something The Advocate has been doing for more than half a century. To be here now feels both surreal and deeply grounding. 

The Advocate is a student paper in the truest sense of the phrase: for the students, by the students. For nearly 60 years, it has existed to amplify student voices. We tell the stories that matter to students in the moments they matter most. 

And while the way we create and consume media has changed dramatically over that time, our commitment to that purpose remains the same. We simply learn to adapt and roll with the changes.

That’s the thing about a student newspaper: It’s constantly evolving. It shifts and grows as the people behind it shift and grow. With each new year and each new term, we embrace new possibilities and face new challenges. We engage in new conversations, ask new questions and allow ourselves to be moved by the voices that find their way into The Advocate’s pages. 

Our doors are always open to students who want to be part of that  conversation. 

If you’ve ever picked up The Advocate and thought, I would love to do this—or even I wonder what it would be like to try this—we think you should. 

Some contributors join because they love storytelling. Others are building portfolios, exploring new skills, making connections or looking for meaningful experience outside the classroom. For some eligible students, there may also be opportunities to offset the costs of student living through tuition waivers or student aid stipends, depending on role and availability. But what often keeps people here is something less tangible and far more lasting: community. 

The Advocate newsroom is a place to collaborate, ask questions, make mistakes and get better together. It’s a space where ideas are workshopped, feedback is part of the process and growth is inevitable. It’s also a space where you might occasionally find a contributor napping on the couch between classes or a group of caffeine-fueled students sharing playlists and enjoying free pizza while engaged in the creative frenzy that is layout production. 

Writers, illustrators, photographers, videographers, designers and students interested in editing, social media or behind-the-scenes production work—all are welcome. No polished resumes or long lists of bylines required. We’re simply looking for curiosity, commitment and a willingness to learn. 

The Advocate exists because students show up. They show up with their voices, their perspectives and their willingness to tell the stories that matter to our campus and our community. Whether you’re interested in contributing regularly or just testing the waters, there’s a space for you here. 

It’s a new year and a new term---the perfect time to dive into something new. Just swing by the newsroom during production hours or reach out to our editorial team to learn more. 

I am deeply honored by this opportunity to help steward this new chapter of The Advocate alongside the students who continue to shape its voice. If you think that could be you, we’re excited to have you.

Your editor-in-chief,

Jennifer Childers