Within this series of editor spotlights, we have the 4th editor in journalism. You may know her from the charm she possesses or from the Howl Studios channel on YouTube. She is the Editor of TV Production, and the founder/manager of Howl Studios, Abbigail Huynh. Abbigail has proven why she is one of the best high school video editors out there, time and time again. Abbigail is a senior in high school debating on going to either SCAD or UCF to pursue her education after graduation. Along with all of the other editors, I have asked Abbigail a series of questions. This is what she said:

How did you start your journey as an editor?

Abbigail started her journey as an editor when she transferred over to CCMHS. When she was rezoned from WCHS, the TV Production Academy Head redirected her to Ms. Passardi. She assisted Passardi with editing videos and dance showcases, yet this is her first year as an editor for a subdivision of Journalism. Which currently she is the Co-Manager for the news, and is managing/running the Howl Studios, WBEU’s sister channel.

What made you take up the position as editor?

Huynh has always been interested in her school’s culture, and more importantly the film/visual media aspects. She wanted to be in a place where she could connect and interact with the student body here- to be able to showcase opinions and personalities from different walks of life.

Why should people join Journalism?

“Journalism honestly has so much to offer, regardless if you believe you’re artistic or not- there’s a subdivision for everyone here. If you thrive going out in the field or writing, the newspaper is the perfect place for you. If you’re more into designing and photography that includes action/motion yearbook is such a great division for you to work in. And if you’re more into creating video content and the film area TV Production is the best outlet for you to express your creativity. Each subdivision is different, but together they all work to ensure that they capture our school’s student culture.”

What is your favorite thing about being an editor?

Her favorite thing about being an editor is being able to have freedom when it comes to showcasing the kind of student body we have at this school. She can forge new bridges of trust and friendship through filming videos – with people who may have never thought of interacting with each other. Abbigail loves that she has given the students a voice, a place where they can be comfortable and themselves- because that’s what all schools should offer.

What have you learned from being an editor?

From organization to setting up a schedule for filming to the postproduction editing, Abbigail has learned how to manage her time much better. Putting her in charge of timings and schedules her time management has improved significantly. Along with time management, she has become more sociable and better at networking with her peers- getting to understand what they desire to see on screen and what they wish to express through using Howl Studios as their ‘voice’.

What do you think should be a requirement for upcoming editors?

“One simple requirement is that you should be passionate if you want to become an editor. Without passion, inspiration runs dry and motivation comes to a halt.”

If you could improve one thing about Journalism, what would it be?

“If there was one thing I’d like to improve about journalism, it would be the focus given to each subdivision of journalism. Sometimes I feel bad that TV Production and Newspaper are placed together in the same room- when students try to film their projects it sorts of puts the Newspaper meetings on hold. I hope further on in the future there’s more of a separation of each division of journalism- so that Newspaper can feel as much love as Yearbook does.”

What is one quote you have been told about your role that will stick with you forever?

“I haven’t been told any important or valuable quote about my role per se, however a quote I do live by that applies to my role as an editor is ‘As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.’ (Audrey Hepburn). As a senior now, I value the importance of not being self-serving when it comes to creating something- that whatever you make, there must be a beneficial reason for it – whether it’s to spread joy to others or influence someone to be a better version of themselves. I believe that in the realm of journalism, we have the power to craft the narrative of our school and student body, so why not craft one that promotes love and connectivity than not?”