At a glance, the job of an editor-in-chief is to ensure that your school’s yearbook gets done. In my experience – and in the experience of many others – it is so much more than that. If you are struggling to find your footing, let this serve as your guide. Being an EIC brings new challenges every day, but that is no reason to quit. There is no such thing as a perfect yearbook.
My Story
I have been my school’s editor-in-chief for three years. Throughout that time, I learned that the work of an EIC is never truly finished, there will always be students who do not want to work and not every deadline will be met. Because of this, I have come to accept that my role is not simply to edit the book. I need to build bonds within my staff so they can appreciate every word and photograph in the yearbook just as much as I do.
Even after years of experience, I still make mistakes. Rather than dwelling on them, however, I learn from each one and help everyone move forward. There have been moments where I doubted my ability as an editor. If you ever find yourself in that position, find at least one thing to keep you going. For me, that was my staff and my friends in the class.
Moments that Mattered
One moment that stuck with me was my first year as an editor when I felt completely lost. I sat next to my best friend, who consistently avoided doing work. Yet there she was, finishing her first spread. Was it late? Yes. Was it perfect? Not at all, but the moment reminded me of the influence I have on those around me. When I felt like I was not enough, one small accomplishment helped me remember I still inspire change in others through my leadership.
A year later, my friend graduated. She later told me I played a part in helping her get there. She reminded me of the times I brought her back to class, sat with her, and guided her through her work. At the time, I saw it as a small act to help us meet a deadline, but to her it meant so much more. This is why I love being an editor. It gives me the opportunity to help those around me grow, not only as journalists, but as individuals.
Finding What Motivates You
Yearbook can help students become more outgoing and confident. I may have questioned why I stayed during stressful deadlines, but I realized I stayed because I am truly passionate about working on the yearbook. Finding what you love about your yearbook keeps you motivated as an editor. If you are not passionate about the book, your staff will not be either because the energy you put in sets the tone for the entire room. When your staff sees the effort you put into the book, they follow. The students who once procrastinated every spread begin to take pride in their work, not because they were told to, but because they were shown how.
So if you are just starting out or somewhere in the middle wondering whether it is all worth it, let me assure you it is. The yearbook is more than a book. It is a collection of events and moments between students that will be documented for years to come. That is not a small thing. Embrace it, and never stop reminding yourself and your staff why the work matters.
