Maya Martin, Editor-in-Chief

I didn’t plan to fall in love with journalism, but it ended up shaping my entire path.

I started my journey as The La Salle Collegian Editor-in-Chief (EIC) in the spring of 2024, and it has brought me nothing but fulfillment and community. Before my role as EIC, I was the politics section editor, and before that, I was an arts and culture editor for my high school paper, The Holly Spirit.

My passion for journalism did not come about until my junior year English teacher, Mrs. Sarah Sherman, announced to my class that she was bringing back the high school newspaper. I was instantly intrigued, and that moment set the course for the rest of my journey. My experience in high school helped me to pursue a major in communication with a concentration in media and journalism.

During my time at La Salle, my passion for journalism has led me to many opportunities and accomplishments. I had the opportunity to intern with the Philadelphia Eagles Video Department for two years. I interned for Senator Cory Booker. I was awarded a scholarship from the Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia in recognition of my work in the field. What I would like to convey is that my love of journalism has had a domino effect on all my passions and successes.

Looking back, I would never have predicted that a spontaneous decision to join my high school newspaper would shape the path I’m on today. Looking ahead, I will be attending Rutgers Law School this fall of 2026. My love of writing and advocating for others that I developed as a journalist compels me to pursue law and continue advocating for others on a larger scale.

On the theme of unexpected opportunities and outcomes, I had a similar situation when deciding to attend La Salle. In all honesty, I was not going to apply to La Salle until I saw it was free to apply. I thought what I was looking for was a large university, but little did I know the value that a small university has. Coming to La Salle was truly one of the best decisions I have made–academically, socially and for shaping my future.

This school holds so many opportunities for its students, and I am so proud to be an Explorer. We have such a dedicated faculty that supports us and wants us to succeed in every area.

That being said, I have come to learn something important during my four years here: Although you may not follow your expected path, everything will work out and, often, better than you could have planned. As cliché as it is, things work themselves out the way they were intended to be. As frustrating as failure or changes of plans may be, telling myself this throughout college has really changed my perception on hardship.

I did not get my goal LSAT score. I did not get some internships I applied for. I did not get several scholarships I applied for. However, my accomplishments together outweigh all the negatives. I would not make it to the point I am today without hearing “no” plenty of times.

My time on the Collegian has really allowed me to reflect upon my journey at La Salle and put my thoughts to paper–or a digital website, if you will. The student body at La Salle deserves a paper that cares about them, wants to inform them and uplifts their voices. Since 1931, The Collegian has done just that.

Journalism is an integral part of society that people commonly refer to as a “dying medium.” However, no matter the time period or technological advances, journalism is key in informing the public and creating community.

Student journalism, in particular, is just as important as any other form. As student journalists, our role is to provide our peers with information they may not otherwise receive and to foster community on our campus. Us current college students are the future leaders of society. We are navigating a world filled with conflict and division. It is our responsibility to pave the path towards unity and truth.

Journalism remains one of the most powerful tools in bringing this truth to light.

Thank you to all of our readers and supporters. Student journalism depends on you to survive. I encourage everyone to please continue supporting journalism and the pursuit of truth. Journalism plays a vital role in upholding the checks and balances that our country so desperately needs.

I am so proud of the work that my colleagues and I have produced during our time here, and I look forward to seeing what lies ahead for this wonderful paper. Thank you, and go Explorers!