Several aspiring journalists from Gowanda High School recently attended the annual Communications Day event at St. Bonaventure University in Allegany. Students from Mrs. Lauren Giancola’s creative writing class, as well as staff members from The Phoenix student newspaper and the Valley Bugle yearbook, attended a variety of workshops hosted by college professors and media professionals. Communications Day provides students with the opportunity to experience the atmosphere on a college campus and to learn about media-related careers.

Mrs. Paula Ondus, the school yearbook advisor, hopes the event would inspires staff members to gain new ideas and a fresh perspective for the 2020 Valley Bugle.

All of the students attended a writing session titled “Take the time to take the walk.” Dr. Chris Mackowski, a professor at the Jandoli School of Communication, encouraged students to observe closely, use all five senses and take the time necessary to produce writing that is meaningful for the audience. Our students actively participated in the session’s writing activity and discussion.

Students also attended workshops about social media, video and sports reporting.

The highlight of the day was keynote speaker Adrian “Woj” Wojnarowski, an NBA reporter for ESPN and Bona alum, who emphasized the importance of hard work and perseverance to achieve success in any career field.