As I near the end of a two-year journalism program at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), I will be completing a month-long practicum where I’ll be writing and taking photos with The Cochrane Eagle. I’m excited to build even more connections within the community and to be a part of telling the many important stories in town.
I enjoy covering local events, writing travel and profile features and covering stories about the environment. Through The Eagle I look forward to discovering new themes and touching on a little bit of everything happening in Cochrane.
Just in the first few days I’ve had the opportunity to cover local businesses giving back to seniors in the community as well as an upcoming event that celebrates the town’s diverse culture— Which I’ve been fortunate enough to experience first-hand in almost seven years of living here.
I really couldn’t ask for a better start!
I’m proud of my small-town roots hailing originally from the badlands of Drumheller, Alta. I’ve found that moving from one valley to another was an easy transition both in the beauty of the unique landscapes both towns offer, and the people here who are nothing short of kind and welcoming.
This welcoming feeling has only been amplified while studying and working to become a journalist. The generosity of complete strangers who volunteer their time and efforts to help build on important stories never ceases to amaze me.
While learning online during a pandemic has presented its challenges, it’s also been an exciting time to be in the field.
Now that things are beginning to open up around the province, I look forward to taking advantage of some of the opportunities that could not be afforded to studying journalism during a pandemic.
And who knows, maybe we’ll even get to shake hands soon!
Jessica Lee is a second-year SAIT journalism student majoring in writing. She will be completing her practicum with the Cochrane Eagle in July and August.
