Lily Mitchell
Managing Editor
I originally joined La Vista to fulfill my art credit, but with guidance from the Editors-in-chief, who just so happened to be my older sister and her close friend, Mia Cho, as well as the constant support from Mr. McAvin, I decided journalism was something I wanted to pursue at Mira Costa. La Vista quickly became a safe space for me; I had finally found my place on campus and was ready to make the most of it.
I immediately took interest in sports journalism and looked beyond just the statistics and scores of the games. I was intrigued by the athletes’ stories and wrote many, many student profiles. After one semester in the class, I worked my way up from staff writer to Executive Sports Editor.
Running the sports section was certainly an emotional rollercoaster, but truly a blessing. The long days (even nights) spent with the rest of the editorial board in Room 101 during production week were filled with memorable moments I will cherish forever. We shared many laughs (and tears) and were always having some sort of potluck. We became close quickly, and everyone was willing to help one another. I don’t think I went one day without bugging Sofia with an InDesign question, saying my computer was “broken.” It was never broken. And of course, production isn’t the same without a classic Mac Attack. Most importantly though, holding the position of Executive Sports Editor allowed me to become a better writer, reporter, and leader.
Before I go any further, I want to express my gratitude for Mr. McAvin. Mac certainly held us to higher standards than most high school newspapers, but he shaped us all into the passionate journalists we are today. Mac believed in tough love. He taught me how to take constructive criticism and learn from it. He continuously encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and use my voice, and he supported me throughout everything. He helped me find my path at Costa, and with his guidance, I was blessed with new opportunities such as attending Medill-Northwestern Journalism Institute. Mac made a huge impact on my life and will always maintain a special place in my heart.
As Managing Editor this year, I have watched our staff pour their hearts into every single issue, even during the hardest times. I am beyond proud of each and every one of them. To my fellow seniors, I am excited for what the future holds and am positive we will achieve great things. And to the rest of the staff, getting to know you has been a privilege. I admire your dedication to this class; La Vista is truly the most special program on this campus, and I trust that you will continue to produce award-winning papers.
It’s a bittersweet feeling leaving La Vista after it has been such a big part of my life here at Costa, but I wouldn’t want to have it any other way. So to those of you who are still struggling to find your place at Costa, join La Vista. Trust me when I say it’s more than just an art credit; the people on this staff will become your family and Room 101 will become your home.
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