Jurski: Road blocks, criticism necessary

Sometimes I find it hard to have expectations. I think it's the realist in me.

Or maybe it's that I want to be surprised, I want to be proven wrong. I have these standards in my head, things I've wanted, things I've tried and failed at and things I've wanted that I won't let go.

And although I've hit my bumps along the way, I still love what I do. Writing, designing, editing, reporting and being a leader. I am proud to represent the student newspaper, for it's something I am proud and defensive of at the same time.

A lot of worrying and waiting go into each issue of The Campus. I can't count the number of times the editors try to get the paper in on deadline, along with the number of times we wonder if stories will come in (with 3 sources and about 500 words, of course.)

This year, I must feel the fire, as well as get use to and accept past and future changes. I need to go in with high expectations and make sure I come out the same way. I expect to keep doing what I love, to keep hitting road blocks along the way while keeping my head up, smiling.

But I need to pause at said road blocks. I know mistakes will happen in The Campus this year. I mean, I accept that it's only natural. I must push the perfectionist in me aside and realize that what's perfect, what's acceptable and what's comfortable in my eyes isn't in someone else's.

That my shades of grey are white and black to others. That when my eyes are closed, things are happening all around me. When they're open, they need to be watching.

Giving up isn't an option, but frustration is normal. I need to give in and also take input. I ask for all of your help to contribute. We are your student newspaper, we are here to talk about what you want to hear. If we aren't doing that, we want to know.

I ask for your voice. If you agree or don't agree with something on campus, we want to hear about it. We'd love to publish it. You should feel proud that you are amongst a small community where people want to hear your voice. I want to hear it, and I'm proud of mine.

Be proud that you're a part of this campus. You have the power to make a difference. The other students, staff and the community will be here to help when you fall and to smile when you win. (And believe me, they'll be proud you tried either way).