The Stand
Newhouse student recounts her experience writing for The Stand
I really think The Stand is something special.
In a world where larger news outlets are laying off reporters to save money and stay in business, it’s become increasingly difficult for a newsroom to cover its market.
Syracuse is especially hard to cover because of the broad range of issues residents face in each section of the city.
However, that’s also what makes it so fascinating.
This creates an opportunity for The Stand to be the strongest voice from the South Side. We can find the stories. We can open conversations. No one can better explain a community than its own residents.
The thing that makes me the proudest is that The Stand symbolizes collaboration between Syracuse University and the South Side community. Students often enter Professor Steve Davis’ classroom knowing nothing about the South Side. It can be intimidating to enter an unfamiliar neighborhood and try to relate to people. I know that it was difficult for me at first.
I come from suburban Colorado; I had no idea how to interview someone about difficult urban issues I had never experienced. How could I possibly relate? But I did find out that I knew how to listen. I started to see how the residents there have a knack for organizing and addressing an issue.
Through them, I learned how to tell a story. And for that, I’m extremely grateful.
I’ve met inspiring leaders, hard-working entrepreneurs, and dedicated students here on the South Side. It’s been a life experience. I can’t wait to see what The Stand will come up with next.
— By Durrie Bouscaren, a staff reporter from 2011 to 2013
