Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: UT-Tyler Entry Title: I Will Not Be Re-Downloading TikTok Entry Credit: Larry Bonilla Judge Comment: Well isn't this UT-Tyler's time to shine? Oh man. What a read. I love the combination of reporting and personal experience wrapped neatly in a compelling argument on a universally known application. It's straightforward yet also original, like a good column should be.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Del Mar College Entry Title: I took a chance on news writing and found a passion Entry Credit: Haylie Godoy Judge Comment: When you next need an argument for the value of a liberal arts education, show the skeptic this column. I don't know the writer, but I hear her and see her journey. While it's personal, it's universal: get your ass in a classroom because it may change your life.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: UT-Tyler Entry Title: Dissecting the 'Podcast Election' Entry Credit: Mateus Ferreria Judge Comment: Points for originality on a timely topic and a fresh take on an issue that got lost in general press coverage.
Place Name: Honorable Mention Contestant Name: Tarrant County College Entry Title: Self-censorship out of fear prevents stories from being heard Entry Credit: Ash Petrie Judge Comment: Horrifying. The experience, that is. Important to hear from the editor on this issue with clear writing and informs the audience. Enjoyed the behind the scenes look.
Competition Comment: These students aren't just brave for being journalists but for putting themselves out there too. This category was tougher than others to judge because it's a section requiring a mix of expertise, distinctive voice and originality. The diversity of lived experiences reflected on the pages and range of educational attainment made choosing four very difficult, but these four represent the diversity of the opinion section and criticism. Of those who didn't win, I hope they all keep writing, and submit next year and the next.
