THE TOPICAL

Annie Kennedy ’24 co-editor

What’s the goal of your publication?

Our mission is to brighten up students’ news cycles. We hope readers walk away from The Topical in a little brighter mood. We feature did-you-know, wacky words, and this-day-inhistory sections, [but] people are often most amused with the overheard section where they can find something they or their friends have said.

Tell us about your production process. We publish on a single piece of tan paper that people can find at Commons and McEwen [dining halls]. Co-editor Amanda Clifford ’24 and I have 12 staff members.

Who’s on your staff?

We have three editors and 63 members on our email list who volunteer and contribute.

What does The Wattage add to campus dialogue?

WHCL is such a unique opportunity that really creates a sense of community on campus. I know so many people who have had the same show for all four years that they have been on campus, and it has provided a lot of purpose and joy for them. The Wattage extends this community and the meaning of music on campus to a broader audience.

Describe an especially interesting content idea you generated.

A few years ago, there was a piece in The Wattage called “What I Would Play if an Opus Barista Gave Me an Aux.” Little did we know at the time this would start a trend of describing personal playlists that has been a really fun recurring segment.

Why did you get involved as an editor?

I am a literature major and a psych minor. I have had a radio show since my first semester at Hamilton, and WHCL has been a significant part of my College experience. WHCL has meant a lot to me, and being an editor has allowed for me to give back to the program. I also think that the voices and opinions of Hamilton students are so valuable, and it is really impactful to hear what they have to say regarding music and musical artists both on and off campus. n

Describe a story from your publication that you are particularly proud of. My favorite piece that I have written informs readers of a continuing robbery. Two years ago, a stray dog would wait until consumers entered a store and then proceed to take a dragon stuffed animal from the store’s shelf. After this crime occurred many times over a day, the stray dog, along with his dragon companion, were eventually adopted. I really enjoyed writing this piece because it is a cute story. As difficult and complex as the news can be, it is nice to focus on feel-good stories.

What have you learned from serving as co-editor?

I enjoy being a part of The Topical because it is a nice change from coursework in chemistry and economics. My position as co-editor allows me to build connections and develop interpersonal skills. I also like the process of storytelling and collaboration. n