Instead of an ordinary day at school, the newspaper staff got to experience hands on learning regarding different aspects of journalism at the Dallas Morning News.

Current and incoming staffers recently attended the 24th annual High School Journalism Day hosted by the Morning News. They learned from professionals in the industry and enjoyed sharing ideas with other high school journalists.

“The classes were very enriching and they taught me new things about journalism,” Olivia Williams, senior, said.

The seminar topics ranged from raising awareness and increasing readership to finer points about writing and editing.

Future reporter Lillian Holmes, freshman, learned more about copy editing.

“The main point was teaching us how to copy edit better and to create headlines that draw the reader in,” she said.

For incoming staff members, this opportunity was particularly helpful.

“The experience was a good one and I hope to participate in the event again in the future,” Emma Ruby, freshman, said.

Those who are preparing to pursue journalism in the future also felt that the program was advantageous. One workshop offered advice about preparing for a successful journalism career during college and then beyond.

“I felt that overall the classes were very informative, especially for an aspiring journalist,” Alana Brandt, senior, said.

The day concluded with keynote speaker Dr. Seema Yasmin detailing her crooked path to a career in journalism.

“Dr. Yasmin was a testament to the idea that perseverance in your passions, even if it’s inconvenient, always pays off,” Brandt said.