A Greencastle native and a 2017 graduate of Wabash College, Brand Selvia is passionate about history, conversation and classic cars. Nicknamed "Brando" by family and friends, Selvia loves chatting over a cup of coffee or glass of bourbon, as well as joyriding in his 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.

Moving forward - and still here

Posted Wednesday, August 21, 2019, at 2:47 PM

Image via Digital Journalism Blog

This is meant to be more of a life update, though I've included some reflections too.

Though I certainly have thoughts about developments at the national level, I have no eagerness to discuss any of those topics this week. As is usual, events here at home continue to keep me and Jared busy and moving. Wednesdays are no exception.

Representing a personal milestone after a little more than a year of work, I recently began online courses through Ball State University for a master's degree in journalism.

I will say that getting back into school is a welcomed event on my part, even if it will run concurrently with my writing here at the Banner. It's partially because I now have a tangible and rewarding goal to work toward now. It's also because these courses are opportunities to learn about the whole practice of journalism in theory and in doing.

If there is one overarching idea that my college days eventually imprinted on me - and I think there are more than a few - it is that a person doesn't have to stop learning in and out of a classroom. I mean that as it would pertain to both academics and my job.

Joni Mitchell wrote in her classic song (and one of my favorite covers done by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young) that "...I don't know who I am/But life is for learning." I still feel like that and want to go in open-minded. As such, I guess I'm technically on my "second" career since graduating in 2017. This will mean something to a few of you.

Though I will take my coursework as it comes, the program promises to touch upon different aspects of media and disseminating news. These will range from technology platforms to simply how to craft a more engaging story. This is the breath I want - and really need - to get a grasp on the finer workings behind both publishing and content.

Taking these courses online is meant to be more practical. I am not staying up in Muncie with the uncertainty of steady work. I can devote time outside of reporting for the paper to my coursework, and still be able to go at a deliberate pace. Money in general isn't really the primary focus, but continuing to earn a wage is still important.

I have made a conscious effort to move forward in my career - wherever it may take me. Advancing my education beyond my bachelor's degree has been that next step I have contemplated or procrastinated on for the past year. Now it's time to get it done.