It’s all about experience. From covering football games at the Bill to living the “college life,” it’s a hard balance between the two. Watching all your friends go out and hang while you stay behind “working” doesn’t always seem appealing, and sometimes it’s a grind, but this is the course I chase after.
Not everybody enjoys this way of life; only people who enjoy writing and those who struggle with procrastination, but I wouldn’t want to spend my time any other way. As a journalist, I have a way with words, combining what I see, learn and take from interviews to compose an article which I hope readers will connect to.
My passion for sports writing is so ingrained in my character that I couldn’t choose friends over a career I long for. This sounds crazy and might make me sound like a bad friend, but it’s all perspective.
Throughout different situations and environments, your perspective changes and allows you to think differently. Depending on whether I’m acting as an independent individual or a journalist, my perspective changes. As sports editor for The Kansas State Collegian, I was excited to cover the Wildcats during their 2025–26 football season due to K-State’s strong football reputation and the unmatched atmosphere at Bill Snyder Family Stadium.
Since I cover every home game, my weekends are decently packed, which means my time as a “college student” is limited. So when I have a weekend off or don’t have to write a game story, I use my time to relax and take a step back from being a journalist.
Unwinding can look different depending on my week. So when one of my friends asked if I wanted to go to the K-State vs. Baylor game, I jumped at the opportunity to go as ‘just a fan.’ While that doesn’t sound too exciting for some, I was hyped about going because I got the ability to spend time with my close friends and build memories on the road while watching college football.
Despite a lot of time on the road, it was an enjoyable experience since I was with some of my best friends. Having to sit through classes on Friday was a struggle, knowing that in a few hours I would be well on my way to a fun and relaxing weekend. Before the Wildcats and Bears faced off, I was able to chat with my friends and enjoy some delicious food. Since kickoff was at 11 a.m., I found myself in bed early to have the energy for a long day on Oct. 4.
Walking into McLane Stadium for the first time was exciting as I watched the colors of yellow, green and even some purple surround me. While the outcome was not what I had hoped for whatsoever, the experience was one I won’t forget. In addition to the cheers of “K-S-U Wildcats,” my section was also shouting “C’mon” and “Are you serious?” throughout different possessions of the game.
Being able to yell chants and speak my mind throughout the game was weird to me. As a journalist covering games from the press box, I stay impartial and professional. Do I want to make comments and cheer during the game? Absolutely, but I know my place. The major difference between attending a game as a fan and covering the game is the level of professionalism. I’m there to work, not socialize.
As a fan, I’m not sure if there’s a more unsettling feeling than walking out of a stadium after a loss. After the clock ran out, and the realization of losing set in, the environment around me — which I assumed would be rowdy — was surprisingly respectful. Once leaving the stands, one Baylor fan complimented the ‘Cats on a close and competitive game. Not a rude, snarky comment, just genuine competition and a love of supporting college football.
Not only did I appreciate that as a fan, but also as a sports journalist. That comment tells me everything I need to know about Baylor fans and their character. While this might not apply to every single fan, it makes me believe that fans can agree on whether both teams played a competitive game.
Being able to see both sides of sports events from a fan’s and a journalist’s perspective is something unique and not something that everyone can do. I love having this talent and sharing it with people who come across my path. The balance of being a college student while also passionately chasing career experience is a grind, but something I wouldn’t ever change.
