Writing
News, Opinions, & Features
Sophomore Year
2024-2025
Grocery stores brace for impact as tariffs are imposed
March 2025
"Grocery stores brace for impact as tariffs are imposed" explores how local supermarkets, such as Lundardi's Markets, prepare for the impact tariffs will cause them regarding vendors and food prices. This article demonstrates how supermarkets are working to maintain the same shopping experience for their customers. Although this article explores the reactive measures businesses are taking, I did encounter setbacks during the interview process, as countless businesses refused to comment.
March 2025
"Opinion: AI is the future of education" explores how artificial intelligence should be used as a tool in a classroom setting rather than an object harmful to learning and a facilitator of cheating. This article was my first opinion piece and taught me the complexities of successfully conveying my opinion while supporting my thoughts with research.
March 2025
"Executive order targets historic San Francisco landmark" highlights the impacts of Trump's budget cuts on the Presidio. Although he wanted to remove all unnecessary personnel, the Presidio considered every employee necessary, assuring many during the struggling time. One of the most challenging aspects of this article was finding interviews, as many workers were advised not to talk about the matter.
February 2025
"Fighting food insecurity differently" was my first feature, highlighting how one food bank in the Bay Area had a different approach to food insecurity. This article, which performs a deep dive into the issue, explains how inflation has affected food insecurity and how the option of choice is beneficial in these settings. Although this was not my first article, "Fighting food insecurity differently" taught me how to contact expert sources and conduct meaningful interviews by asking the right questions.
February 2025
"San Carlos welcomes the Year of the Snake" explores how the Lunar New Year brings the community closer together, fostering celebration, collaboration, and the opportunity to learn more about this holiday from cultures all over the world.
January 2025
"New law aims to increase pedestrian safety" explores how the City of Belmont planned to implement the law of Daylighting at the beginning of 2025. Daylighting prevents cars from parking within 20 feet on the approach side of a crosswalk or within 15 feet of one with a curb extension. Belmont planned on issuing warnings for the first few months, transitioning to tickets later in 2025.
December 2024
"Local toy drive brings joy to the community" explores the inner workings of the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department's annual toy drive. Beginning in 1973, this tradition has helped many kids receive toys on Christmas no matter their family's financial situation. Firefighters also share how this tradition has not only brought joy to the community, but also joy to themselves.
November 2024
"Belmont’s Veterans Day celebration honors living heroes" explores how the City of Belmont recognizes individuals who served within the community. While writing this article, I learned the importance of following up on emails and conducting in-person interviews, as without this skill, there may be no article.
November 2024
"Establishments prioritize community safety amidst food recalls" explores how local grocery stores stayed on top of the Listeria outbreak, ensuring complete safety for their customers. Being my first article, it came with a sharp learning curve. I had to learn to conduct interviews after multiple refusals, embed infographics, and effectively utilize quotes. This article taught me the reigns of journalism and sprouted my addiction to the craft.