Last week, Stamford High School journalism students ventured to the CPA’s 94th Annual Spring Scholastic Convention at Columbia University, accompanied by journalism teacher Jon Ringel and English teacher Ryan Hough. Students had the opportunity to explore the university and the surrounding neighborhood while getting to hold discussions with, and learn from, presenters and other journalism students.  

The three-day event began early Wednesday morning as students departed to the session of their choice. Presenters ranged from professional editors to college professors and high school teachers, presentations were based on a variety of topics from ethics to newspaper and yearbook. Over 350 sessions took place at the conference, all giving insight on different aspects of media.

For some students, this was their first time immersing themselves in the Columbia campus setting, but for others, this has became an annual trip.  Lalith Goli, an SHS junior, who previously attended the Fall Scholastic Conference at Columbia, says that this experience gave him a more holistic view of the campus, as well as the atmosphere. While there, he was able to explore the Columbia Library and the streets of Morningside Heights. “I thought the campus was really amazing, especially the library. It made me want to go to the school,” Goli said.

Scott Krupa, an SHS senior, this Convention being his third so far, described the atmosphere as inspiring. With the heart of the trip revolving around journalism and media, Krupa liked that he was able to learn from professionals “about things that are refined to what you actually care about.”

The tragedies and events that have been occurring in schools across America increased the relevance and importance of this year’s convention. Students of journalism or other media classes are given outlets to express their opinions and perspectives on issues arising around them, and the convention allows them to explore and gain more resources to further their documenting.

Despite the struggles throughout their school and community, students from Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School traveled to Columbia to attend the Convention last week. Ringel, who led one of the sessions, noted the significance of this year’s event. “I’ve been a presenter there for the last four years, but this year really felt special,” he said. Having experience leading students in covering serious events, Ringel said he felt honored to have the Parkland students attend his session about covering scandals.

Students attended a variety of different sessions, but all said they gained enormous perspective and  insight from the trip.