When I first joined the ODYSSEY Media Group I didn't take the traditional route. I was not handed a measuring cup or recipe and I barely even knew I was in the kitchen. Most of my classmates started with the Journalism I class, learning the basics of how to write a compelling lede, how to edit and how to breathe AP style. I skipped all of that and dove straight into the deep end. I showed up holding a pile of sour lemons and the blind hope that somehow I would make lemonade.

 

As a freshman Sports Staffer, my introduction to journalism was messy. I learned through trial and (a lot of) error. I rewrote stories, made hundreds of grammatical mistakes and even misspelled athletes' names, something every journalist knows is unforgivable. Each mistake felt like another lemon tossed my way but slowly I began to understand that a strong angle, a compelling quote and a photo with actual meaning is what makes a story work. I wasn't polished but I was persistent. Somewhere between the frustration and the rewrites I found passion. 

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The next year I stepped into a new role of Social Media Coordinator. On paper it sounded exciting, an editor title and real responsibility. In reality the lemons came fast. This job wasn't about writing one story per cycle, it was about consistency, branding, timing and most importantly leadership. I had a staff now, people who depended on me for guidance and that wasn't something I was prepared for.

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I was internally motivated. When I saw a problem, I worked harder. When I got a deadline, I grinded. But not everyone operated that way. Deadlines were missed, effort was inconsistent and I felt like I was constantly scrambling to compensate. I squeezed lemon after lemon and nothing sweet came out. I blamed myself and started to wonder if leadership just wasn't for me. Maybe I was better off working independently. Maybe some people just aren't meant to make lemonade.

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Then, something shifted. 

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The second semester brought a new staffer. She was quiet, unsure and unfamiliar with the OMG’s expectations. She reminded me of myself at the beginning, overwhelmed holding a lemon with no idea what to do with it. Instead of pushing her forward and hoping she'd figured it out, I slowed down. I explained everything and she responded. She grew, her work improved and as she gained confidence, our social media presence grew stronger. 

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That experience rewired how I understood leadership. It wasn't about doing everything myself, it was about meeting people where they are and helping them grow.

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This year, as a junior I stepped into my biggest role yet Sports Editor. Once again the lemons showed up but this time I knew what to do with them. 

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As Sports Editor, my responsibilities combine writing with managing a staff, organizing the sports section of the magazine, working on layouts and ensuring consistent website coverage. I also project manage large initiatives like our cross-town rivalry packages and Media Days. I’ve also gotten the chance to work closely with our current Social Media Coordinator guiding her through the challenges I once struggled with myself. Each of these projects has required adaptability, communication and trust. 

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I learned that leadership isn't a one size fits-all. Some people need structure, others need encouragement and some people need space to figure things out on their own. Adjusting my leadership style doesn't mean lowering standards, it means raising people up and meeting them. The more I practice this the more confident I become as a project manager, leader and editor.

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Looking back, I'm grateful I never took the traditional route. Being thrown into the deep end forced me to learn quickly, reflect often and grow continuously. I've learned how to manage deadlines, navigate collaboration and truly lead. I've learned that mistakes don't ruin the recipe, they refine it. 

 

Good lemonade doesn't come from perfect lemons, It comes from patience, persistence and the willingness to keep squeezing even when your hands are tired. Journalism has taught me how to do that, not just when it comes to my writing but also when it comes to being a leader. Now, when I'm handed lemons, I don't hesitate, I know exactly what to make.