When I rolled into Sault Ste. Marie on Feb. 29, I was just another 19-year-old journalism student from Ottawa, itching to break free from the familiar.
Now, as I’m staring down my final week as an intern with SooToday, I’m hit with a realization: I really don’t want to leave this community that’s become my second home.
Let me paint you a picture of where I started.
I’m an Orleans kid, born and raised. Same house, same schools, same old routines.
But when this internship popped up, a smaller city way up north, right on Lake Superior, I jumped at the chance.
From day one, the Sault threw me for a loop, in the best way possible.
I was carless in a new city, fumbling with bus schedules and walking everywhere. Talk about a change from my comfortable, car-dependent life back home.
It was a bit of a shock at first, but man, did it ever open my eyes.
I hit the jackpot with my living situation. Jim Bedell, an IT pro at Village Media and his wife Shelly opened their home to me like it was no big deal.
Their basement became my home, and their generosity was truly remarkable.
The SooToday newsroom was intimidating at first, but after a week or so, it felt like I’d been there forever.
Everyone I’ve worked with has been amazing. They’ve pushed me just enough to grow, without ever making me feel out of my depth.
As I got to know the city, I fell for its sense of community. It’s got this sweet spot, big enough to keep things interesting, but small enough that you feel like you’re part of something special.
It’s a world away from the sprawl of Ottawa, and I’m here for it.
This internship has introduced me to some amazing people. Artists, business owners, city officials, you name it.
I’ve had the opportunity to watch amazing performances, promote so many events and help raise awareness to charities. I’ll never forget the connections I made.
Looking back, it’s crazy how much I’ve changed. That nervous kid who showed up in February is now ready to take on whatever comes next.
The Sault hasn’t just been my workplace, it’s been my teacher, showing me what community really means and how good it feels to push your boundaries.
My coworkers have been a major part in my growth as a journalist.
James Hopkin taught me the ins and outs of the court system, while Kenneth Armstrong showed me the ropes of crime reporting during quick, exciting assignments.
I’ve learned so much from conversations with Greg McGrath-Goudy and Brandon Walker, witnessing their work has been eye-opening.
I’m incredibly grateful for the kindness shown every single day by Mike Purvis, Brad Coccimiglio, Darren Taylor, Donna Hopper, Andrew Stuetz and Lucas Punkari.
Being in the newsroom with these talented workers has been a pleasure and a priceless learning experience.
As I gear up to head back to Ottawa for graduation, I’m feeling all kinds of ways. I’m excited to take the next step forward, but a part of me wishes I could stick around here a bit longer.
I’m hopeful my upcoming experience at Queen’s University will match the incredible time I’ve had here in the Sault.
This city has changed the way I’ll look at every place I go from here on out.
To everyone in Sault Ste. Marie: Thanks a million. You’ve shown me what it means to belong somewhere, even if you’re just passing through.
As I pack up my stuff, I’m not saying goodbye, more like see you later. Because, trust me, I’ll be back.