An electronic hum as the power switch is flipped. The imperceptible adjustments of the focus motors. The satisfying mechanical click of the shutter, and a brilliant flash of light.
Through my viewfinder, people are brave – resilient – fragile – human. This collection of assorted metals in my hands gives me the courage to strike up conversations with strangers and gain privileged glimpses into the complexities of their lives. Why was this oil painter capturing the vast Yosemite landscape with each contemplative stroke on her canvas? Who was this college dropout-turned-JPL engineer sitting on a neon-lit Sawtelle curb with his date? Each brief encounter is a testament to humanity’s potential, enriching my perspective on the kind of person I’m meant to be.
What started out as a kid wandering his dark neighborhood clutching his camera has evolved into work for a star singer on the other side of the globe and recognition from industry-leading creatives. Working for Untied empowered me to accumulate the experiences that shape my identity as a multimedia creative today.
My time at Untied taught me the value of putting way too much on my plate. My flexibility and improvisational abilities have never been pushed as far as when we’re rushing to make end-of-period deadlines or undertaking last-minute battles with the ever-malfunctioning printer. Lax expectations and all the time in the world never make for a final product you’re proud to show others, and we certainly didn’t have either of those in the Untied newsroom. That isn’t to say the occasional Latin was successfully barred from the Entertainment section.
My deepest appreciation goes to Ms. Derdzinske and Mr. Paschen for recognizing room for growth in me and encouraging me to hone my journalistic skills. Thank you, Mr. Cohen, Mr. Tan, and Mr. Clark for your patient guidance and reassuring presence as creative peers throughout my time at LACES. Thank you to every LACES community that supported my work over the years – your support means the world to me. And lastly, thank you to Leilani for being the best magazine co-editor I could ask for. It was a far too short two years, but they’re 730 days I’ll always be grateful for.l
