Meet the editors of the Tartan Newspaper (and podcast)

Meet the two seniors who are elevating the student voice at Stuart. As editor-in-chief and managing editor of The Tartan, the Upper School newspaper, Amanda Long and Gaby Velazquez Gonzalez have both revitalized and filled a need for more student perspectives on school topics and global issues and have led a staff of like-minded journalists who will continue their legacy. In less than a year of operation, the newspaper has also expanded its reach through podcasting. Recognizing that the state of media today is connecting with readers beyond the headline, Amanda and Gayi adopted the Tartan Talk podcast as an additional news channel to allow the editors to go in depth on topics through interviews with the adult experts at Stuart. The online Tartan newspaper was launched in the fall of this year through the new journalism course taught by Kristen Zosche and Greta Nelson, and it is a hub for school life, current events and lifestyle interests. To help bridge the launch of both media platforms, the editors sat down with Ms. Zosche for an episode of the podcast. 

In the episode, Amanda and Gaby discuss their foray into journalism (Amanda discovered her interest after starting a music blog last summer, and Gaby was encouraged to “step out of her comfort zone” by her English teacher, Ms. Nelson), the qualities of a good journalist, what it is like for them to turn around stories at a pace of a real newsroom, what they have learned and enjoy about podcasting, and a deep dive into their own interests. To listen to the podcast, search for Tartan Talk in the podcast app, click here or listen below. 

So what is next for Amanda and Gaby? This is just the start of a career in journalism for Amanda. She is attending Syracuse University at the Newhouse Communications School with a major in recording and entertainment Industries (a.k.a the Bandier Program on their website). With an interest in music journalism, she plans to join the on-campus newspapers. Gaby is attending Muhlenburg to study public health and hopes to join the newspaper staff to remain connected to her experience at Stuart. 

As pioneers of a new era of student publishing at Stuart, both Amanda and Gaby are confident in the future of the paper. “I'm excited to leave them a truly collaborative newspaper in which all ideas and subject areas are accepted and discussed in depth,” said Amanda. Echoing Amanda’s sentiments, Gaby praised their talented staff. “They are great journalists and natural leaders so I have no doubt they will continue to do an amazing job.” 

For the next staff, I'm excited to leave them a truly collaborative newspaper in which all ideas and subject areas are accepted and discussed in depth. I think the crew we have are natural leaders and will be able to work together well to make the newspaper the best it can be. 

When asked for final thoughts on the experience and an elevator pitch to future student journalists, Amanda and Gaby invited anyone with an interest in creativity and new experiences. 

“The newspaper is for anyone who is naturally curious and wants to investigate the world around them,” Amanda remarked. “The media team at Stuart is open to all types of interest and creativity from the arts to sports, to managing social media. We truly have a place for everyone. The class itself is incredible and allows students to pursue the creative interests they have. For me this was writing about music, and for others it could be graphic design or news reporting. In journalism, Ms. Zosche and Ms. Nelson truly nurture and collaborate with students, allowing them to grow professionally as well as personally. It also offers a respite from the stressful school day, giving students a chance to pursue things outside of core classes. If you are passionate about something and naturally inquisitive, journalism is an amazing class to take.”

Speaking from personal experience, Gaby emphasized the importance of trying new things. “Don't be afraid of trying new things. I speak from personal experience. I thought that the Journalism class was not for me, but I am glad that my teachers really encouraged me to do so. Stuart has a place for everyone! The class allows the student to truly pursue their interest in a comfortable and nonjudgemental way. Ms. Nelson and Ms. Zosche are great teachers that will help you along the way to help you succeed. If you are curious and passionate journalism is the class for you!”

Click here to read the latest from The Tartan. The podcast is available as a tab on the newspaper website.