About 225 students from across the South Suburban Conference gathered Thursday, Oct. 22, at Harold L. Richards High School in Oak Lawn to learn about journalism, creative writing, photography and the many opportunities available in the media industry.
The South Suburban Conference Publications & Literary Magazine Conference featured journalists, authors and other professionals who shared their experiences and offered advice to students interested in developing their skills and pursuing careers in the field.
Deb Swanson, assistant principal of activities and enrichment at Richards High School, said Alan B. Shepard High School, Richards’ sister school, organized the speakers and sessions.
“Our sister school, Shepard High School, organized a wonderful line up of guest speakers to inspire and educate approximately 225 students from across the conference about the world of journalism,” Swanson said.
Swanson said the conference was an educational and beneficial experience for students interested in pursuing careers in the media world, giving them an opportunity to learn directly from professionals and explore different areas of the industry.
Television journalist Corey McPherrin delivered the keynote address, sharing his personal story and giving students a glimpse into his career in journalism. His presentation offered students a chance to hear firsthand about the experiences and decisions that shape a career in the media.
Students also heard from Rebecca Gardner, a Richards alumna and author, who spoke about her journey to becoming an author and how she turned a dream into reality. Her story showed students what it can look like to pursue a creative passion and work toward making it a career.
The conference also gave students a chance to sharpen practical skills. Dave Wierzal of Palos Heights TV4 and Kelly White, journalist at Southwest Regional Publishing, led a session on interviewing techniques, offering guidance on asking questions, gathering information and getting the details needed to tell a good story.
Other breakout sessions covered sportswriting, creative writing, poetry, photo composition and yearbook design. The variety of topics allowed students to explore different interests, whether they enjoy writing, working behind a camera or helping put together a school publication.
Richards High School is located at 10601 S. Central Ave. in Oak Lawn.
The conference gave aspiring writers, photographers and editors a chance to learn from experienced professionals, connect with students from other schools and gain a better understanding of the skills needed to tell stories and bring school publications to life.
