Staff writer joins Banner Graphic team for the summer

Nina Thompson

With a little notebook and lots to learn, I’m thrilled to be given a temporary staff writer position here at the Banner Graphic before heading into my senior year at DePauw University. As an English writing and media studies student, I am ready to expand my knowledge on reporting; more importantly, however, I am ready to learn about Putnam County.

Originally from St. Paul, Minn., and choosing DePauw as my first home-away-from-home, I wear midwestern pride on my sleeve. Even after spending my most recent semester in New York City where the fast pace and constant hum of opportunity energized me each morning, I am happy to return to Greencastle exactly as I’d left it: The air is still clean, the smiles are still friendly, the clock tower still rings. Yet, even though things appear to have stayed the same, it is unfair to cease wondering past a five-mile radius.

While I am extremely grateful for DePauw and the space it’s given me to grow, it’s time to delve into what lies beyond downtown Greencastle, the bowling alley and Big Walnut Creek in the nature park. In order to be a productive guest in Greencastle, I must find out for myself what happens in the rest of the county, and working for the Banner Graphic is a great way to start.

I’ve taken on a cultural and long-form storytelling beat over these past years of reporting for different publications, and have tried my hand at reporting on community services and projects as well. In-depth and thoughtful interviews have improved my writing skills greatly, and my passion for writing and learning constantly affirms me in my projected career choice. I hope to become a familiar face to residents in need of a platform and to be a friend of the community while improving my skills, making plenty of mistakes along the way.

Above all, I’m grateful to spend this summer under the Banner’s thoughtful leadership and guidance.