At ITHSA, journalism advisor and former English teacher Ms. Corbett brings 13 years of experience and a second Master’s in Journalism to her classroom. After transitioning into the yearbook role and learning through years of national critiques, she now focuses on guiding her students to fill “blank spaces” with award-winning storytelling.
The Pulse: What was your role before teaching journalism and how did you start?
Ms. Corbett: I previously taught English. I took the open yearbook position to change things up and we just kept adding more journalism classes after that.
The Pulse: Is there a mistake from your early years that helped you become a better teacher?
Ms. Corbett: For sure. I didn’t have a journalism background, so I had to learn everything. Learning from mistakes and getting critiques from national associations helped me realize I needed to learn more, so I got a second master’s degree in journalism.
The Pulse: What is the toughest obstacle you face in your career?
Ms. Corbett: Pushing and pushing and not sometimes taking enough downtime to just take a rest day, play a game, or have a food day. We are bad about that.
The Pulse: Out of all your awards, which one are you most proud of?
Ms. Corbett: I am most proud of the awards that the students win because they work so hard. Seeing them achieve those milestones and win national individual or staff awards is incredible.
The Pulse: What still surprises or excites you when you walk into class every morning?
Ms. Corbett: Our student journalists. Every year it’s 224 blank pages and new kids. It’s exciting to see them fill those spaces with amazing journalistic work; it’s different every year.
The Pulse: What is the best thing that has happened to your classroom so far this year?
Ms. Corbett: The work they do and the interaction. We laugh a lot. We work really hard, but we work together well and there are a lot of inside staff jokes.
The Pulse: What is the most important tip you would give to an aspiring journalist?
Ms. Corbett: Just go for it and be curious. If you want to get to know people or take better photos, just jump in and tackle it. Be willing to put in the hard work but have fun at the same time.
The Pulse: Is there a quote or saying you tell your students?
Ms. Corbett: I tell them all the time: “Just be curious.” Look for the little hidden stories.
The Pulse: What do you hope students remember most after they graduate?
Ms. Corbett: I hope that they remember all the amazing work that they did and the fun we had along the way getting there.