What was the most important thing you learned at the National High School Institute-Journalism this summer?

“I learned that journalism takes hard work, persistence and dedication. Don’t take criticism too personally, and making the extra effort pays off.”
Anna Scalamogna, Clearwater, Fla.

“There are so many different forms of journalism.  Before I came I was cynical, thinking that I could not realistically incorporate my passion into a career. Now I know not to listen to all of those people that say you cannot get a job with a journalism degree.”
Jasmine Atwell, Boynton Beach, Fla.

“The importance of a nut graf that states clearly what the article is about. If you can’t summarize your piece in one or two paragraphs, then your article has no focus and the reader will be lost and confused by your rant-like article.”
Shirley Gao, Davis, Calif.

“I learned so many important things, but one of the most important is new perspectives! I’ve learned that there are so many different people around the country that are unique but share the same interests and goals as me. I’ve also learned a new perspective about who I really am and what I want to do with my life.”
Nina Rayburn, Davenport, Iowa

“I learned to make each word I write mean something. We get so used to filling our essays or papers with ‘fluffy’ language, but it’s important to remember that each word needs to be in your article for a reason.”
Sarah Davidson, Portland, Ore.

“I’ve learned the power of journalism and telling stories.”
Jason Jung, Los Angeles.

“I learned to not use emoticons in job-related emails.”
Natalie Stumpf, Piedmont, Calif.

“To challenge authority and fight for truth and justice, thanks to John Kupetz.”
Jen Pritchard, Cooper City, Fla.

“Good writing will never make up for bad reporting.”
Joe Buzzelli, Lake Zurich, Ill.

“It pays to take risks and people can actually succeed by doing that.”
Krystin Arneson, Overland Park, Kan.

“The most important thing I learned at cherubs is how to interview someone professionally and effectively.”
Julie Kliegman, East Brunswick, N.J.

“Your life’s boring and you’re not funny. This classic John Kupetz advice was really useful because I’m into column writing.”
Andra Lim, Orinda, Calif.

“The most important thing that I learned at cherubs was that there are 87 other teenagers with the same passion and vigor regarding journalism.”
Jeffrey Cattel, Canton, Mass.

“I’ve learned a lot about myself. I am more prepared for college. I have been able to experience dorm life, lectures and college food. I have made new friends and met new people I will never forget.”
Elizabeth Henning, Cincinnati.

“Things aren’t what they initially seem. Everybody has a story to tell.  You just have to help them tell it.”
Rebecca Messinger, Stow, Ohio

“I’ve learned how wild it is to always carry a pen and pencil.”
Hunter Bradley, Sturgeon Bay, Wisc.

“Get the facts right.”
Alberto Sandoval, Fresno Calif.

“The most important thing I learned at cherubs was how much hard work goes into producing a live broadcast.”
Megan Kozak, Hawthorn Woods, Ill.

“In the world of journalism, reporters cannot make mistakes. Even if I do not attend Northwestern University, I will always be conscious of the “Medill F” and do my best to avoid deserving one.”
Helen Tobin, Clive, Iowa

“I learned that there are no rules about what is ethical in journalism, but it takes a lot to know what is the right thing to do.”
Lindsay Tuchman, Alpharetta, Ga.

“Being a cherub forced me to go out of my comfort zone and talk to complete strangers, and being thrown into a group of 88 teenagers forced me to be outgoing.”
Lucy Jackson, Los Angeles.

“I have learned that you can make a friend in any situation. Even the more challenging moments turned out to be OK because I had my friends to support me.”
Alexandra Rudansky, Larchmont, N.Y.

Cherub comments were collected on a written survey and selected to compile on this page.