The Student Voice of Howard University Since 1924 Thursday, April 27, 2017
DIARIES
Washington, D.C.
THE HILLTOP 20 1 6 - 2 0 1 7
Volume 101, Issue 28
#ForZora @TheHilltopHU
www.thehilltoponline.com
@TheHilltop1924
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THE HILLTOP
The Hilltop Editorial Office 2401 4th Street NW, 68B, Washington, D.C. 20059 (202) 806-4749
WWW.THEHILLTOPONLINE.COM
WELCOME TO
THE HILLTOP DIARIES 2016-2017
Paul Holston Editor-in-Chief
Thanks to ALL that contributed to The Hilltop this year!!!
Rushawn Walters
Special thanks to the advisors: Shirley Carswell, Editorial Advisor & Robin Thornhill, Business Advisor
eic@thehilltoponline.com
Managing Editor
managing1@thehilltoponline.com
Almani Jackson Business Manager
business@thehilltoponline.com
Akiah Singfield Sales Manager
adsales1@thehilltoponline.com
Dawn Richard Layout Editor
Sylvester Johnson III Copy Chief
Devin Barnwell
Assistant Copy Chief
Victoria Jones Copy Editor
Jason Ajiake News Editor
Gabrielle Oliver Culture Editor
Brittany Webb Sports Editor
Zora Neale Hurston (18911960), co-founder of The Hilltop Newspaper, is considered one of the preeminent writers of 20th century AfricanAmerican literature.
Lawrence Dow Assistant Campus Editor Jaimee Swift Editor-At-Large Jacinth Jones Staff Writer Justin Cohen Staff Writer Kai Sinclair Staff Writer Chante Russell Staff Writer Kyana Harris Staff Writer Imara Bright-Johnson Staff Writer Nicole Hutchison Staff Writer Leaynet Sahilu Staff Photographer David DePriest Columnist Arelia Johnson Contributing Writer Rebecca Johnson Contributing Writer Daja Henry Contributing Writer Dawchelle Hamilton Contributing Writer Kayla Irby Contributing Writer Kaylin Young Contributing Writer Acacia James Contributing Writer Kai Gray Contributing Writer Natalie Felix Contributing Writer Sophia Hussein Contributing Writer Victoria Jonas Contributing Writer Christian Bacon Contributing Writer Greetings reader!
Johnathan Saffold Juan McFarland Sabrina Newton Kyra Azore Shaleen Shah Maya Reese Montana Couser Alexa Imani Spencer Taiyler Mitchell Chad Clarke Nathan Easington Ayanna Alexander Darnell Dinkins Evan Brooks Eileen Salazar Michael Anderson Briana Ellis-Gibbs Raaziq Brown Maya King Amber Broaden Xavier Hamilton Crystal Smith Nadaysia Brooks
Contributing Writer Contributing Writer Contributing Writer Contributing Writer Contributing Writer Contributing Writer Contributing Writer Contributing Writer Contributing Writer Contributing Writer Contributing Writer Contributing Writer Contributing Writer Contributing Writer Contributing Photographer Contributing Photographer Contributing Photographer Contributing Cartoonist
+ ANYONE ELSE WE MISSED!!! :]
Welcome to The Hilltop Diaries, our last regular issue of the 2016-2017 academic year. While we still have one last issue to produce next week, which is our special commencement issue, The Hilltop staff wanted to take the opportunity to share our thoughts, experiences, and testimonies in working for The Hilltop this year. For many of you, more than likely you might not know the Hilltoppers who are in our masthead, as well as all those who worked for Howard’s student newspaper this year…and that’s okay! This issue will provide you a better glimpse of the staff and their perspectives. This past year was a very unique one for us, as the staff covered a variety of memorial occasions, events, news, and happenings. From the AT&T Nation’s Football Classic, the return of “Yardfest” during Howard’s Homecoming, covering the 50th anniversary of the Black Panther Party in Oakland, California, the 2016 presidential election and inauguration of President Donald Trump, to commemorating Howard’s sesquicentennial, The Hilltop staff ensured to inform our readers in all capacities, to include print, online, and social media. We hope as you flip through this issue that you are able to better understand the perspectives from some of this year’s staff. We also hope that if you are a continuing student that you are somehow inspired to consider working for The Hilltop in the future. After all, The Hilltop has and continues to be the student voice of Howard University since 1924. Thank you for your support and always remember that we did it #ForZora. With Truth And Service, Paul Holston Editor-in-Chief, 2016-2017
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Letter from the Editor: Final Reflection When I first stepped on the campus of Howard University, my initial goal was to finish out my long, undergraduate journey into earning my Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism. Little did I know when I transferred to The Mecca in Fall 2014 that The Hilltop newspaper would become a major part of both my campus experience and my college life. I first learned about The Hilltop newspaper during an organization fair held within the School of Communications (s/o to Maya Cade for being the first Hilltopper to introduce me to the paper!). Once learning about the history of The Hilltop, Howard’s official student newspaper, and also learning that it was co-founded by both Zora Neale Hurston and Louis Eugene King, I strongly desired to be a part of it somehow. I wanted to be a part of this great legacy that is known as the student voice of Howard University. From there, I started as a contributing writer and photographer, moving up to being an editor the following year, with ultimately becoming the editor-in-chief of The Hilltop. When the Hilltop Policy Board first informed me that I would be the next leader of one of the best collegiate newspapers in the country, I was both excited and eager to get to work. At the same time, I was met with the unique challenge of being given this role with unforeseen circumstances. Myself and my Business Manager, Almani Jackson, was told that we would be moving to a new office space back on 4th Street after residing in the West Towers since 1991, that our online website had to be recreated from scratch, as well as not being able to hire our staff until late Summer. These, amongst many other circumstances, would be the beginning of the academic year ahead on the successes and shortcomings of our tenures as student leaders of The Hilltop. But after almost 30 successful issues produced, over 70+ staff and contributing members accumulated this year, a progressive online website and dramatic increase in our social media presence, I am confidant that we succeeded in our year’s purpose of letting the Howard community know that The Hilltop still thrives as both a Black Press newspaper and news organization. When looking back on why I wanted to become The Hilltop’s Editor-in-Chief, the answer was simple: To make the newspaper better and to prepare it to continue to be better after my tenure. I am extremely humbled and proud to have worked alongside so many passionate individuals this year. From my Managing Editor Rushawn, I thank you brother for working closely alongside me this year…I know that I always gave you a hard time (lol), but it was with understanding that you could handle it and you helped hold the newspaper down with me. To the Business Team (Almani and Akiah): Thank you in working with me and holding down the Business side, as I know it wasn’t easy (Almani definitely appreciate you brother with holding it down since Day 1!) To my editors and Copy Desk (Dawn, Jason, Gabrielle, Brittany, Sylvester, Devin, and Victoria): Thank you for all of your extremely hard work and dedication this year in your respective positions. Words cannot express how each of you displayed your commitment and work ethic into your respective positions, but you all did an outstanding job and have made my time as editor-in-chief very rewarding. (The long nights were worth it, I promise you!) To Professor Carswell, I thank you immensely for your advising expertise, being patient with me throughout the year, and ultimately, assuring that I did the best job I could as editor-in-chief. To all the staff members and contributors who were a part of The Hilltop this academic year (so many to name), I thank you from the bottom of my heart in working with me this year. I know that I was at times very stern and assertive, but I hope that you were able to enjoy your time working with me and were able to learn lessons along the way. For those who will still be here next year, I hope that you are inspired to continue with working with The Hilltop in some capacity! When I look back at all that I’ve given toward The Hilltop (time, commitment, sacrifices), a part of me will miss the long nights, the frustrations, the disappointments, as well as certain failures throughout the journey. And yet, another part of me will not regret all of the lessons I’ve learned as editor-in-chief of this prestigious newspaper, to which I also call ‘The People’s Paper,” as well as remember all the great times I’ve had along the way. It is with great hope that The Hilltop continues to be successful in all that it represents as the years progress, as The Hilltop is without a doubt one of the best collegiate newspapers in the country. For future editor-in-chiefs and future staff members, when asking yourself “why do I want to continue to work for The Hilltop?” please always remember the great words created by one of my predecessors, the late Hodari Ali, 1975-1976 editor-in-chief of The Hilltop:
“The Hilltop Creed” “Our objective is to motivate our readers to be dedicated to serving our people and rebuilding our communities. We do this by providing relevant news, information, pictures, art, and ideas. Like a sword, The Hilltop is a weapon for freedom, and truth is the foundation of our efforts.”
-Paul Holston, 2016-2017 Editor-in-Chief, HU 2017 Facebook/Twitter/Instagram: @Tru1P
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Rushawn’s 5 Be’s: 1. Be Original 2. Be Persistent 3. Be Intentional 4. Be Lit 5. Be Blessed Twitter: @SirRWalters
Sup Y’all, When I was offered the position of managing editor of The Hilltop, I had no idea what to expect. Before being a student at Howard, I attended a private Christian college in Tennessee. While there I was a section editor for their student run paper, something much like The Hilltop. The only difference was I was the only Black student on staff. I was actually the first Black person to hold that position at the time. I had the least experience and I was also the youngest. With each issue I had to prove myself to the other staff members. Fast forward three years and I’m the managing editor at one of the top HBCUs in the country with an all black staff. Being at The Hilltop has been one of the most rewarding positions I’ve ever held. I wouldn’t trade spending late nights in the office laying out an issue or simply brainstorming cover ideas for any happy hour, darty or kickback. I will never forget having the unique opportunity of designing our Homecoming issue when both our editor-in-chief and layout editor were out of town. It was my first time ever working with the new software but I did it because I was dedicated to the people we serve - and thats you guys, the Howard family. Throughout the year, I’ve quietly read your tweets of concerns, anger and joy. I made sure your voices were heard even though some may feel as if they were ignored. We didn’t do all this work and sacrifice our own time for a check, because trust me, we don’t get paid that much. However, we do go back and forth with administration and spend tireless nights because we care about about you and we want you to be informed. That was our mission: For Us, By Us. I hope you guys enjoyed the ride as much as we did. Cheers, -Rushawn Walters, Managing Editor, HU 2017
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Experiences and Memories to Look Back On <3 I started my history with The Hilltop when I was a freshman in 2014 as a contributing writer. I remember trying to get published and now I am one of the last people who work on The Hilltop before it’s sent to the publisher each week. Becoming an editor for The Hilltop has been one of my best experiences at Howard University. Being Layout Editor goes way beyond copy and pasting stories; there were malfunctions and challenges EVERY single week. There were nights when I completed the paper at 7 p.m. (which is early) and then the file becomes corrupted or I have to go back and make room for an advertisement. There were times where I thought I wasn’t creative enough or not even qualified to be the Layout Editor, but on Thursdays when I see readers holding the latest issue it’s a really beautiful feeling knowing how much work we put in to it for it to get to their hands. More than anything, I’ve learned how essential teamwork is when putting together an issue every week. Being the layout editor is one of my many other obligations and if it wasn’t for the other editors, I wouldn’t of been able to be as productive. I am especially thankful for Paul (Editor-in-Chief) and Rushawn (Managing Editor) for sitting with me and assisting me every Wednesday night as I fought to find energy to sit and lay out the paper until late at night. Also, I want to thank those two for valuing my opinion on headlines, sto ries, etc. Being an editor for The Hilltop took me on trips on the east coast, granted me access to the presidential inauguration, led me to gain new friendships, and ultimately has boosted my confidence in joining a publication after graduation. There are going to be many Wednesday nights after these last two, where I will think back about the countless hours I spent in the office with the other editors. This year we covered the election, covered Howard University’s 150th year, and many other historic moments that I know will be looked back on in the years to come. As I move forward, I cannot wait to look back at the memories I have here. While this venture was far from easy, it has been truly rewarding and these experiences will be with me forever. I hope I served The Hilltop and my university well as I go on to the next venture in my life! As of now, I will be catching up on sleep and DAWN time now that I am finished. -Dawn Ri’chard, Layout Editor Snapchat: @duwn Junior, Journalism Major/Spanish Minor, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, HU 2018
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WWW.THEHILLTOPONLINE.COM Ten Things About Me 1. God is my reason. 2. My mom and sister and KP are my biggest supporters and keep me going. 3. I love kids and their innocence, hence me going into speech-language pathology. 4. I am genuinely a self-less person who wants better for everybody and am here to help anybody in anyway I can—don’t hesitate to approach me. 5. I was not one of the most social persons in my class, but I love every last person in HU17. 6. If I could do my four years over, I would’ve stepped out of my comfort zone and spoke more. 7. Being sports editor almost cost me friendships (with athlete friends). 8. Taking Swahili with Mwalimu Lyabaya was the best decision I ever made. 9. Mwalimu Lyabaya is my second mom (my mom has accepted it). 10. I take great pride in where I come from—New York is all in my veins. 11. I love you. I love you. & I love you.
I Was Here... By: Brittany Webb “My legacy is that I stayed the course... from the beginning to the end, because I believed in something inside of me.”- Tina Turner I can’t believe that it is all actually over—my four years at Howard, my time as the sports editor of The Hilltop... all of it. I remember like yesterday when Sylvester (copy chief) sent me a text telling me to apply to be the sports editor for The Hilltop. At first, I was like “ummm, no.” In my years at Howard, I guess you can say I played the background. I never wanted to join anything...I kind of let things pass me by thinking that my time here lasts forever. But time waits for nobody. And yesterday only holds what could have been. I didn’t want to regret my “yesterday” so I stepped out of my comfort zone and joined something greater than me. I took on the responsibility of sacrificing my Monday nights to edit articles. I took on the responsibility of finding something interesting for the sports writers to want to write about. I took on the responsibility of having people depend on and need me. In my four years at Howard, saying “yes” to being the sports editor was one of the best decisions I made. To Syl: For thinking of me and deeming me capable and editing every article—on time or late. To Paul: For making Zora a promise and sticking to it. To Rushawn: For every experience...You’re the greatest to ever do it. To Dawn: For putting all the pieces of this hectic puzzle together. To the sports section: For submitting stories when I was late to assign them, having a will to learn, accepting criticism and putting your best effort into everything. You guys stuck with me throughout the journey and made it all possible. So to Nicole Hutchison, Darnell Dinkins Jr., Nathan Easington, Ayanna Alexander, Evan Brooks and Chad Vines Clarke—you were everything and more this year. To the next sports editor: For taking on the responsibilities of sports editor. Be open to learning and know that there is nothing wrong with asking for help. Treat this as your baby. Make it greater than we that have held the position before you (this is still our baby and we are trusting you with it). Leave your legacy in every article you publish and leave a mark that nobody can erase when you’re done. Most of all, have fun. I love you already. To Howard: For reading every issue. For criticizing and loving us. For giving us a reason to keep going. We did it all with you in our hearts and mind. To Zora Neale Hurston and Eugene King: For the gift. For knowing us and what we could do before we chose your creation. I pray we have made you proud. This experience has been all that I asked (and didn’t ask) for and then some, but I wouldn’t have traded it in for anybody. Thank you. Thank you. Asante.
Love Always, Brittany Webb, Sports Editor, HU 2017
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Being an English major, I am used to categorizing various types of writing. Whether it be genres of literature or types of theoretical frameworks, I’ve been practically conditioned to super-analyze countless types of writing styles and view them as completely different and separate in nature. Working for The Hilltop as a Culture Editor has taught me the harmony of writing styles that can coexist seamlessly in a newspaper. When I started in the Fall 2016 semester, I had an in-depth, yet very broad, understanding of journalism-writing and editing, having been a copy editor for The District Chronicles – a Howard University alumni-run newspaper of the DC-MD-VA area. I had a strong grasp of AP Style, and was not worried about my copy-editing skills in any way, but I had never worked directly with the writers whose work I’d edited – an action, though expected to be hard, I would find particularly difficult from time to time. Writers for The Hilltop do not get paid, staff writers or not; and this is something I know contributes to the issue I encountered of my section writers sometimes not submitting their articles to me on time, or even doing things as simple as replying to my emails. Being an unpaid student writer for a university’s newspaper means working on class assignments and studying for exams, having a social life, and being devoted to writing for a newspaper on a consistent basis. This is not an extremely difficult task, but it can prove to be challenging with all the obligations of a student in college – and a of human being, in general, that gets sick, encounters major life events, and sometimes just gets tired. Overall, I cannot complain too much because the Culture section is one that is consistently strong in nearly every edition of The Hilltop. My writers bring interesting and controversial content to the paper, and I am so glad to have the opportunity to improve their work so that it can shine and really stand out to readers of our paper and online platform. The Hilltop is absolutely a newspaper of an HBCU, and Culture Section writers truly broadcast, uplift, and shed light on our Black Culture by writing about content that relates to and improves the lives of readers. Being the Culture Editor of The Hilltop has taught me the harmony of writing styles because with the many article types like listicles, opinion pieces, and news stories; and with the various topics that range from popular Black dance crazes over the years, all the way to Malcolm X memorials, the diversity of writing-styles and content sheds light on the diversity of Black culture, itself. In this way, the Culture section of the Hilltop is able to fulfill its purpose, and I am able to be glad for the work I’ve helped achieve for the newspaper over these last two semesters.
-Gabrielle Oliver, Culture Editor
Junior, English Major/Japanese Minor from Silver Spring, MD
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My name is Jason Ajiake and I am a sophomore sociology major/political science minor from the Bay Area. After transferring from St. John’s University in New York City to Howard, I knew I wanted to be involved with its historic newspaper. At the start of the Fall semester, I joined the Hilltop team as a columnist. My first assignment was at the National Press Club, where Jill Stein and the Green Party had a press conference discussing their plans for the election. When I looked around the room, I noticed something: All the other journalists were crusty, dusty, and rusty looking white men. In that moment, I couldn’t help, but think about how often the media is used against our Black community, and I immediately knew I had a unique perspective to offer the world of journalism. After consistently covering stories, I was promoted to Assistant News Editor. It was during this time that Paul and I covered the 50th anniversary of the Black Panther Party in Oakland, where we were embraced by the OG Panthers despite the fact that The Hilltop was once used by the FBI to demonize and discredit Huey Newton. Shortly after the trip, I became News Editor. Outside of The Hilltop, I’m an organizer — if you know me, you know that my life is devoted to Black liberation. We live in unprecedented times, and I believe its the role of our newspaper to reflect that. Serving as an editor has allowed me the opportunity to increase the amount of political content in my section. It has been the most rewarding job I’ve had; in fact, sometimes it doesn’t even feel like a job at all. I’m privileged to have an awesome team of contributing and staff writers who work diligently and love what they do. With revolutionary love, Jason Ajiake, News Editor, HU19 (P.S. Follow me on Twitter @JayOhAye for leftist commentary and occasional cheesecake slander)
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN CHAPEL? Seniors Sunday is here! Join us this Sunday as we celebrate and honor the
Deeper in Faith – Wider in Community! Seniors Sunday Org Competition The top three Orgs with the most members (not including seniors) at Chapel for Seniors Sunday will receive a profile in the Hilltop! This ad will paid by the Chapel! What a great way to honor your Seniors and Org!
Commencement Prayer Breakfast Friday, May 12, 2017 - 8:00 A.M. Armour J. Blackburn University Center
Seniors will share a variety of expressions! Special Music by DJ Swerve!
All are welcome to attend.
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My time at the Hilltop ha s been truly amazing. I ha ve gained so much from my ence as an editor with this experipublication: Confidence, lea dership, concise writing, privilege of knowing a gr and the oup of incredible journali sts, to name just a few of This year, I had the oppo ma ny benefits. rtunity to work closely wi th the burgeoning writers assistant copy chief. It is of Howard as extremely gratifying to wi tness the evolution of new writing as you help them journalists’ to publish their best work all year. There is a mutual this process too; it becom benefit in es second nature to scrut inize your own work more you end up a better write closely, and r. I became a more critical, logical thinker, which I fou valuable skill that I use in nd to be a many other areas of my lif e. Above all, the Hilltop con with a wonderful commu nected me nity committed to keeping a premiere Black student alive and well. I’m honored newspaper to have been able to do my part in this, and serve alo the editors and writers on ngside all this year’s Hilltop staff. I will carry the experiences tion the Hilltop has given and inspirame throughout my life. -Devin Barnwell, Assistan t Copy Chief, HU17
The Hilltop is where I fir st learned how to become a journalist. My freshma hungry for success and rea n year, I was dy to get started in the jou rnalism world. Even thou journalism classes in high gh I took school, I still felt utterly un prepared when it came to ing people and writing a interviewproper article. In the sprin g semester of my freshma decided to take matters in n year, I my own hands and email ed the section editors of th that I was interested in wr e Hilltop iting for. After joining th e Hilltop, the section edito under their wings and sh rs took me owed me how to write an d structure an article and confidence to interview su ga ve me the bjects. When Daniel Whit e was the editor-in-chief my more year that is where I sophoreally flourished and learn ed how to meet deadlines and investigate stories. Be and pitch ing a copy editor this year gave me the opportunity to the paper that helped me to give back so much during my tenur e at Howard University. me the chance to sharpen It also gave my editing skills, so I can master a new skill before workforce. I don’t know wh I joined the ere I would be without Th e Hilltop. It gave me my journalism, and I credit mo first start in st of where I’m at today to The Hilltop and it’s amaz and editors. ing leaders -Victoria Jones, Copy Edito
r, HU17
My name is Justin Cohen . I am a public relations ma jor, English minor from sou staff writer for the news thern Maryland. I’ve served section of The Hilltop new as a spaper. Writing for the Hil learned things I never kne ltop has been an experienc w, spoken to people I would e. I have never before have spoken otherwise attend and jus to, attended events I would t all around put myself out never of my comfort zone in ord all around more rounded er to become a better writer individual. and an Through interacting with people and writing storie s with this publication I fee ferent way. I used to be a l like I perceive things in passive consumer of news. a difSitting in front of my com absorbing the headlines and puter screen or my televis the outrage or the praise ion screen of the anchor, but never for getting the implications of ming my own opinions or what I was learning. “Why fully is this bad?”, “Who’s saying importantly--“Is this really it’s bad?”, and--perhaps mo all that bad?” You probab st ly wouldn’t be shocked to are “It’s not,” “Nobody wo know the answer to these rth listening to” and “No,” questions respectively. Through my I have learned to think crit position as a reporter for ically about issues that ma this paper tter and how to formulate that people would want to and frame these issues in read. And I’m not done lea a way rni ng. Another thing I am gratef ul for are the relationship s and on this newspaper. I have the networks I have create met prominent film direct d during my short tenure ors, Fortune 500 executive professors and students. s, entrepreneurs, and eve Through the Hilltop I hav n Howard e been extra motivated to and to work every angle nec perform Man on the Street essary to write a story. I Interviews have been introduced to alt worlds that I did not kno ernative points-of-view and w existed previously. It sou even nds like a whole lot for one week to have been introd kid submitting a story or uced to, but it’s true. two every But the most important thi ng I have gained from my tenure on the Hilltop is my writers and my editors. I relationships with my fell have been encouraged wh ow en I felt I was not capable, even I did not think I cou I have been given respon ld handle, and I have bee sibility that n given a degree of respec been given memories tha t that I could never return t will never go away. And , and I have it looks pretty good on my resume too. -Justin Cohen, Staff Writer
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Hi my name is Almani Jackson, I am a Junior Organizational Communication major from Phoenix, Arizona. I started as The Hilltop Business Manager in the late spring of 2016. The Hilltop was in transition from the Towers to The Quad on 4th Street. Being apart of this transition has really helped me to understand how an organization runs from top to bottom. There are tireless meetings and necessary plans that need to be met in order to have a successful organization. I have had a great experience working with the The Hilltop and have learned skills that I look forward to passing down. I believe everyone at Howard should join an organization, because it promotes growth and understanding. Especially when it comes to professional teamwork. Amidst the transition, The Hilltop had a great team this year and the individuals who value the process of completing a paper every week are appreciated. The team was focused, motivated, and driven that allowed The Hilltop to excel immensely. The online presence through The Hilltop Online and social media has allowed the presence to be felt widespread across Campus. I want to give a huge shout out to our Editor-In-Chief, Paul Holston for placing a strong emphasis on the importance of the The Hilltop. Even in hard times his strength and perseverance to “Put the team on his back” is appreciated and inspiring. The Hilltop can only go up from here. I look forward to where our newspaper is headed and the future looks bright. Hilltop Leadership has been working to create a smooth transition for those after us. Transition between leadership, in my opinion is one of the most crucial aspects of keeping an organization grounded and focused. Overall, it’s been a great year! The Hilltop has one more edition before the semester closes out! Congratulations to the Class of 2017 and Congratulations on being afforded the opportunity to impact the world as a unique individual! Everything that we do today allows us to create a better tomorrow! Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready! With Truth and Service, Almani Jackson Business Manager for The Hilltop Newspaper, HU17
Dear Diary, Do you remember the show Gilmore Girls from the early 2000s? Yea, I know. It was a former guilty pleasure of mine (embarrassing, right?). In this show, Rory Gilmore, an aspiring journalist, is shown working for her school newspaper that seemed collaborative, time-consuming, and team-oriented. After binge-watching the show the summer before I came to Howard, also as an aspiring journalist, I decided joining the university’s newspaper was on my list of school organizations to leave an imprint on. So here I am, a contributing writer for the Culture Section of The Hilltop -- a position I am proud to have applied for this Spring 2017. Although I admit this is nothing like the newspaper Rory worked at in Gilmore Girls, this is still one of my proudest accomplishments. I can say I wrote for The Hilltop newspaper at The Illustrious Howard University. That holds so much weight, and for that I am grateful--so much so that I often get my articles done before my actual schoolwork (not that that’s something to be proud of). I remember seeing my first article in print and being elated. Every Thursday that my article is featured, I feel almost just as joyed; but, nothing has beat seeing my first article printed in this newspaper. I’m so excited to continue writing for The Hilltop. I look forward to meeting the staff, to exercising my writing, and to learning more about the online/print journalism industry. Signed, Taiyler Mitchell Contributing Writer
black woman my body doesn’t belong to me never has, never will. i’m a woman. policed by the misogyny in this patriarchy for what I’m wearing, who I’m sleeping with, or rather who I’m giving my body to, i’m black. policed by white supremacy and institutional racism for doing nothing but wearing my skin. the image of my body imitated my culture appropriated i’m a black woman, dealing with fair-skinned men telling me I’m not beautiful, and too many black men agreeing but still choosing to stand with those same black men shouting Black Lives Matter, i am a black woman and my doesn’t belong to me. -Taiyler Mitchell
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Favorite Quotes: “Don’t think. Thinking is the enemy of creativity. It’s self-conscious and everything self-conscious is lousy. You can’t try to do things. You simply must do things” -Ray Bradbury “Fashion should be a form of escapism, and not a form of imprisonment.” -Alexander McQueen “Every story I create, creates me. I write to create myself.” - Octavia E. Butler” When I was thirteen years old I decided that I would attend Howard University and write for The Hilltop. At that age I was unaware of all that I was saying with that statement, but it just felt right. I didn’t really understand the legacy I was promising to uphold, and I definitely didn’t understand the passionate leadership I’d be following. Because I didn’t really know what I was getting myself into, being on The Hilltop staff was a daunting task for me initially and that fear showed in my early work. Those first couple of months were extremely frustrating as I learned about myself as a writer. Not all of my work was published and I didn’t always agree with the editing on my work that did get published. Now that I look back, I needed that. Those disappointing Thursdays where I opened the paper and didn’t see my articles have made me a much better journalist. In one year, I’ve grown tremendously and been able to push my comfort zone. A year ago I would have never been able to interview anyone on the street and I definitely wouldn’t have been able to interview the founder of Busboys and Poets. I can even attribute some of the success of my personal blog to The Hilltop. From skills to name recognition, being a Hilltopper has had a great impact on all of work. Both my classmates and various professionals I’ve met throughout the year have nodded their heads in approval when I mention my work at The Hilltop. Though it is far from perfect, The Hilltop is an invaluable stepping stone. I couldn’t be more thankful to the rest of The Hilltop staff (both past and present) for the experience, for the lessons and even for the frustration. I’m especially thankful to Rushawn and Gabby for their guidance, to Paul for his passion and of course to Zora for her vision and I can’t wait to follow in their footsteps throughout the rest of my time at Howard. -Chantè Russell, Staff Writer
ning with the g days in my adult life. I woke up that mor ckin wra e nerv t mos the of one was r yea October 24 of last eed. not knowing what to expect or how to proc of up, ing com was t wha g win kno not of feeling g anxievent, nor was it intermittent and recurrin It wasn’t because of a major test or social well the Homecoming Edition to The Hilltop, as ety. Instead, it was the publication date for ce poli a lished. My article, a bit of reporting on as the first issue where my writing was pub somersial or eye-catching, but for me it signified brutality roundtable, was far from controve of my time at Howard. thing major, a transition into a new phase cking. ed has only gotten slightly less nerve wra Since then, the experience of being publish mitting r-ritualistic in their repetitions, with me sub Mondays and Thursdays have become nea of the copy Thursday mornings, taking a still-warm (sometimes on time) to Jason and then, on ing of just my writing, but the infinitely-better writ Hilltop to breakfast or to class. Seeing not earable rs entire days, turning unfortunate or unb colo that ng ethi som me beco has es agu colle days into days worth getting through. about the top stories or events of the week Beyond just improving days, writing columns the lottered uneasiness about the proceedings on fascinated instills in you a certain critical eye, an unfe e endlessly eon som as I, that ng ethi som is m ticis skep rs) for cal and national levels. This bit of healthy Hilltop’s staff (Paul, Jason, Amber, and othe The k than not can I and , race emb to e com person in general, really) by politics and governance, have ifying experiences I’ve had as a writer (or grat e mor the of One s. way inct dist own r didn’t like) nurturing that in thei ring from a reader how much they liked (or hea or ors, edit my from e anc guid or has been getting constructive criticism , opina certain piece. urce, an inexhaustible well of information reso le eab plac irre an as e serv to s inue not stress just It’s because of this that The Hilltop cont er than most of its other institutions. I can bett ity mun com ard How the e serv to s for others in the future. ion, and sentiment that continue and I can only hope that it plays that role me, e mad has top Hill the for ing writ how happy reading and -David DePriest, Columnist Kansas City, MO Sophomore, Political Science Major from
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Working for the student voice of Howard University for the 2016-2017 academic year has been a blessing that has allowed me to delve deeper into the field of journalism. Journalism was never a passion until I started working for the Hilltop. As a Staff Writer, I have learned that journalism is hard work. For one article alone, it is a mix of sourcing, interviewing, fact-checking, writing, and even more fact-checking just to keep the public accurately informed. I find it unfortunate that students discredit the work of editors, contributing and staff writers of The Hilltop. It amazes me how students talk so poorly of journalism when the mass media plays a vital role in society as being the gatekeeper of the public’s general knowledge. This mindset has always pushed me to become a better writer and story-teller. Becoming a better writer meant event coverage and boy...during the fall semester, that was the one thing I disliked. Going to events alone was a dub in addition to striking conversation with strangers for the sake of sources. As a naturally shy person, I thought the journalism thing was a wrap, but the more events I attended, the more comfortable I felt. Each event came with another opportunity to meet new people and create new experiences for myself. From seeing Anthony Anderson, Cathy Hughes, and Joe at the Cathy Hughes School of Communications Naming Ceremony to connecting with some of Howard’s most influential students and to meeting other student journalists within the DMV is worth it. The Hilltop is a stepping stone, a foundation, a cornerstone for my future career and I would like to thank Paul for this incredible experience. Thank you for the support, energy, and dedication you have put into this newspaper as Editor-in-Chief. Your faith in me has ignited a flame to continue to work diligently towards my path in journalism. As a successful EIC, I already know you will be making power moves through your leadership and commitment. You have made my time at The Hilltop less daunting and I appreciate the time you have put aside to cater towards the needs of others. Although it is upsetting to see you leave, I am truly grateful for the opportunity I have had with the Hilltop under your leadership and hope to return to continue this legacy in August.
-Jacinth Jones, Staff Writer Junior, Journalism Major/Spanish Minor, from Houston, TX My name is Kai Sinclair. I’m a junior print journalism major, chemistry minor from Groton, Connecticut. Considering my major, one might think that I’ve been involved with the Hilltop since my first days at Howard. One would be wrong. I just started writing for the Hilltop in January because I needed to have stories published for a class (shoutout to Professor Alexander and public affairs reporting). But after being on staff for a few months, I’ve found myself asking the same question my professors have been asking me: Why’d it take me so long to start writing for the Hilltop? The freedom that I have to write about the news that I want to write about is refreshing, and it reminded me of why I became a journalism major in the first place. I can write about student protests on campus one week, then switch up and write about the latest news coming from Syria or even NASA. I get the opportunity to put all of my interests, from dance and the arts to science and education, into writing, and that’s a beautiful thing for a young journalist. I appreciate my editors for having the faith in me and my abilities to tackle some big news stories, and I appreciate the Hilltop for being an outlet for my writing. I get to put things I’ve learned in class into real-life practice, and that feels good. When people around campus say, “Hey, I read your article in the Hilltop,” or tweet at me about a story, I feel more like a real journalist than I ever have. So thanks, Hilltop. This started as a way for me to get a good grade, but now, I’m in it for the long haul (meaning until I graduate).
-Kai Sinclair, Staff Writer
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For as long as I can remember, I knew that writing was one of my passions. As a little girl, I loved to write in my journal and I was eager to write short stories in my free time. I begged my parents to put me in writing programs and knew that I would grow up to be one of the best writers in history. To this day, my parents continue to tell the story of my ambitions to move to New York City and work in a cubicle as a journalist. As time went on, my journalistic ambitions died down. Although I still loved to write, I thought that I would never make it in the big leagues. I was always praised for my writing, and it got me pretty far in regards to my grades, scholarship contests and standardized tests. Even though there was proof in the pudding, I always doubted my talent and myself. Towards the end of high school, I decided to abandon the dream of a writing career and focus on the field of communications. I declared my major as public relations knowing that writing would still be a focus, but I would not have to rely on it to be successful. Growing up, my dad always told me stories about Howard. He gushed over the atmosphere, the fashion and the people. However, during every story, his experience writing for The Hilltop always ended up being the topic of conversation. As a student, my dad wrote for the student newspaper and ended up becoming editor—he even said that it made him popular on campus (haha). I admired his love for The Hilltop and his dedication to writing, and in some way, I wanted to have a piece of his experience. During the summer before my junior year, I saw the announcement for positions on The Hilltop Staff. I consulted my Dad about applying, and of course, he encouraged me to do so. I decided to apply as a staff writer for the culture section. I filled out the application attached my writing samples and hoped for the best. Soon enough, I was emailed an offer to be a staff writer and eagerly excepted the position—and the rest is history. This year, The Hilltop has allowed me to grow as a writer. I have been able to acknowledge my weakness and strengths, write about topics that I enjoy and spread my wings. When I applied, I never thought that my writing would end up in the front page, or in multiple issues. My accomplishments through The Hilltop has made my Dad extremely proud, but most importantly, has given me confidence as a writer. I am so happy that I took a leap of faith and branched out for this opportunity. Although The Hilltop does not get as much recognition as it should, my appreciation for this newspaper is indescribable. I would encourage every student that has a desire to write to apply to work on The Hilltop because you won’t know what you might gain until you go for it.
-Imara Bright-Johnson,Staff Writer Junior, Public Relations Major/English Minor, From Detroit, MI When I first transferred to Howard University from Washington Adventist University this fall, one of my goals, aside from excelling in my academics, was also to get myself involved in different activities, especially due to the fact that I live on campus. And so I told Dr. Thornhill my interest in getting in an activity where I can take pictures, and that’s how I was introduced to The Hilltop. Since taking pictures is something I enjoy doing as a hobby, I thought using my ability to take pictures for The Hilltop was a good idea and I had the desire to really join the team. I started off as a contributing photographer, where I took pictures as part of my assignment for my Intro to Media Production class last semester. I also took pictures for the Homecoming issue as part of my grade for my IMP class and it was from there that I wanted to become a Staff Photographer and so I told Paul that I really want to become a Staff Photographer and that is how I officially became a member of The Hilltop and got the title “Staff Photographer.” That feels good, eh!? Being part of The Hilltop has been such an amazing experience for me. I was able to cover different events, both on and off campus and at the same time, I have learned quite a lot from the events I covered, met and networked with different people. I, especially was able to meet Symone Sanders when I covered the People’s Inauguration, which took place a day after President Trump’s inauguration, at the Metropolitan AME Church. I have also taken pictures of other events as a Staff Photographer such as The Women’s March on Washington, the panel discussion at HU’s School of Law, as well as different protests/demonstrations on and off HU’s campus. Even though I am not into writing, I decided to cover an anti-Trump protest which took place last month in front of the White House, both as a writer and a photographer and it was great. Long story short, I would like to say that it was truly a rewarding and remarkable experience for me to be part of The Hilltop and I look forward to continuing as a Staff Photographer next semester.
-Leaynet Sahilu, Staff Photographer Sophomore, TV/Film Major, Political Science Minor from Burtonsville, MD
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As a freshman, I started working as a contributing writer in the sports section for the Hilltop in 2015. Having great mentorship from Nychol Stephens and Matthew Holmes helped me get experience in writing and improve my writing skills for other opportunities that came along. Having the proper guidance and doing well helped me receive the staff position for the 2016-2017 sports section. Moving forward in working as the sports staff writer has been an outstanding opportunity for me. The people I have met and surrounded myself with during this time have helped me with furthering my writing ability, photography, etc. Not only has writing for the Hilltop helped with writing, but it has helped build connections. When I mention to people that I write for the Hilltop, they are always willing to offer internships and/or mentorship for the broadcast journalism field. Of course as a student athlete, it was hard for me to complete articles that were necessary because I had tennis matches to prepare for, practice until eleven at night, news packages due for class, and papers to write, but overall I had to look at the big picture. I realized that I needed to make sure not only am I here at Howard to be a student athlete, but to pave a way for my career. Having worked here for The Hilltop also helped me really work as a team. Coming up with ideas with Sports Editor Brittany Webb and the sports team, forced us all to really help each other make the sports section the best that it could be. Writing for the hilltop allowed me opportunities to many places such as the Big Ten Tournament, Big Ten Media Day, Washington Redskins internship and many others. Joining the Hilltop was one of my best decisions. I thank all of the editors, staff members, and Paul Holston for giving me this opportunity and giving me guidance in being an official sports writer. -Nicole Hutchison, Staff Writer Sophomore, Broadcast Journalism Major, from Houston, Texas
THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 2017
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