How contributing to The Sheaf has enhanced my university journey, and how it can for you too.

Incredibly recluse, and well-practiced in blending into the background, I avoided putting myself out there because if you barely exist, there’s not much anyone can say about you. It’s safe. By not getting too close, you’re less likely to get hurt. For the longest time, as a result of my detached state of being, I’ve never really had to say goodbye.

In my third year I stopped myself on a whim in the arts tunnels to look at a booth with The Sheaf banner. I could never have imagined that listening to what they had to say would lead to me becoming a volunteer editor. Despite not being an english literature student, I would eventually become a Copy Editor, and even go on to write my own articles.

The me in third-year could never have imagined that stopping at the booth of an organization that I didn’t at the time know much about beyond its black-and-white logo, would become an integral part of my university journey.

Through my articles ranging from modern-day dating to exploring the USSU, I was able to exist in the minds of my fellow peers. This led me to gain confidence in my writing abilities, resulting in me seeking out and obtaining opportunities I wouldn’t normally be brave enough to. Most importantly, by working closely with others in this professional and creative capacity, I was able to learn, grow as a person, and meet incredible people and have the honour of being able to call some of them my friends.

This was among the first times I allowed myself to truly belong. By allowing myself to be vulnerable and open to criticism, I became stronger and more well-rounded. Falling down didn’t magically become a painless experience, but I became better at getting back up.

Joining The Sheaf enabled me to not just study, but to be an active member of the University of Saskatchewan as well. It gave me one of my first opportunities of experiencing the bittersweet tugging of your heartstrings when you get the chance to say goodbye.

I’m not going to paint you a grandiose picture, promising that writing for The Sheaf will change your life dramatically. But you will have the chance to voice how you’re feeling about the university and the way it’s being run. You’ll have the chance to capture world events and bring it down to the student perspective. You’ll have the chance to work with an amazing team dedicated to upholding the over 100-year legacy of student journalism here at the university, and maybe even form life-long relationships in the process. 

At the end of it all, you’ll be an alumni of an institution among those that have gone on to become government officials and went on to continue making waves in the field of journalism. Whether you write one article or fifteen, supplied photos and graphics, or contributed more behind the scenes by lending your editorial services, you will leave your mark. 

You will be able to say, I was here.

You will be able to say, goodbye.