Students share stories of veterans

Class shares stories

by Tracy Randolph

Assistant Professor Kristen Grimmer designed a new hands-on project for students in her fall 2020 MM202 Creative Media Writing. 

The course introduces students to numerous forms of media writing styles and interviewing. When it came time for the feature story assignment, Grimmer decided the subject and focus would be profiles on military veterans who attend Washburn University.

“My purpose for doing this project was to inform students and faculty that there are veterans on campus,” said Grimmer. “I also wanted to find a way to honor and celebrate veterans, not only assigning this project but having it done for Veterans Day.”

Students who participated in the project had several takeaways from the assignment.

“I got some insight into how our National Guard was helping Kansans in the wake of COVID-19,” said senior Shelby Hanson. “I thought it was really cool to see how they reached out and provided assistance.”

Another student, Samantha Peters, learned about the types of information that is permissible to ask and things that remain off limits, like mental health.

“I always thought that you can ask about PTSD,” said sophomore Peters. “But it’s not an easy thing for soldiers or vets to discuss and they shouldn’t have to.”

Grimmer said that when she spoke to some of the veterans, there were some who were willing and eager to share their story and accomplishments.

On the other hand, some veterans did not want to rehash their experiences, while others were restricted because some subjects were off limits and confidential.

It’s common in MM202 for students to have limited interviewing experience, and COVID-19 did not help.

“Normally, for this course I have my students practice with each other in the classroom, and I circulate around the class to give pointers on what to do and what not to do

graphic courtesy of the Washburn Review Students in MM202 wrote profiles over 14 veterans who attend Washburn University. The stories were published online on Veteran’s Day. Find the profiles online by searching “veterans” at washburnreview.org.

during an interview.”

Despite not having the in-class opportunities, “students did a great job on this project,” said Grimmer, who also worked with Regina Cassell, director of Student Media, to get the profiles published online at washburnreview.org.

The students, faculty, and veterans learned adaptability in a time of uncertainty. Additionally, the greater purpose was served — to recognize, celebrate and pay tribute to our veterans.