Just as the DAILY TRIBUNE marks 25th anniversary, I reached an important milestone — I, too, turned 25. As someone who first entered the media industry in 2022, I have spent the last few years learning, growing, stumbling and prospering alongside a news organization that has been doing it for a quarter of a century.

Here are some lessons I’ve learned along the way as a 25-year-old media baby in a 25-year-old company.

1. Your voice is powerful; use it carefully and, as Daily Tribune puts it, “Without Fear, Without Favor.”

2. Deadlines will put you to the test, but discipline will help you succeed.

3. Success is not always loud; it can also take the form of quiet moments of kindness following rejection.

4. Impostor syndrome is difficult to overcome, but remembering how far you’ve come can help.

5. Seeing your byline (name) published is always a proud moment.

6. Not every viral story is vital, but every story you share can have a lasting impact.

7. “No” is a complete sentence — especially if your sanity is on the line.

8. The media world is fast-paced; keep your peace before chasing the pace. 

9. Mentorship is valuable — but so is being the mentor you once needed.

10. You do not need to know everything; curiosity is your true superpower.

11. Authenticity connects more than perfection ever will.

12. Hype fades, values don’t — stay rooted in your why.

13. Being young in the industry isn’t a weakness — it’s an edge. Use it to aspire and to inspire.

14. Media attention comes with highs and lows. Serve with purpose and passion.

15. Rewrites and retakes aren’t failures — they’re how masterpieces are made.

16. You can be soft and strong at the same time.

17. Criticism hurts less when you know your purpose.

18. Always check your sources, both in the news and in real life.

19. Trust your editor; good editors don’t just guide — they listen.

20. No one handles pressure alone. If you have trusted people who keep you sane and honest — that makes the pressure easier to bear.

21. Never a dull moment in lifestyle journalism and one of the best parts of working in lifestyle is the versatility. No two days are ever the same.

22. Breaking news will break you if you don’t take breaks.

23. You can both admire the company’s 25-year legacy and still dream of shaping the next 25.

24. If this company can thrive for 25 years, so can I — but cuter, in sneakers, and with oppas on the line.

25. Have your own voice -- mine starts with the “PAUwer” of storytelling.