Another first

Friends, family say goodbye to Felton

This was the first funeral I've ever covered and the first article I've written about somebody who died. I know what a sympathetic and sentimental person I am, which made me worry about whether or not I'd be able to hold up. There were moments (specifically during the soundslide show, those always get me) where I teared up and had to remind myself to be professional. I really wanted the article to portray the love and respect these people had for Felton, and to make him feel real. So many times I've read articles about people who had died and found them to be flat and lifeless.

I was extremely surprised and pleased when the managing editor came to my desk today and told me he thought I did an excellent job on the article. Not only that, but he said that if they had a need for another reporter when I graduate, he would be happy to hire me. I think that was one of the biggest compliments I've ever received.