Get to know the SunDevil Times’ Editor in Chief

As the SunDevil Times takes on its first full year with a fully online presence, senior Asha Cooper has stepped up to take on the critical role of Editor in Chief.

“Asha has been a rockstar since she joined the newspaper staff,” said Journalism Advisor Mrs. Kathleen Trace. “She was a bit quiet and shy at first, but she stood out as a talented writer and dedicated staff member right from the beginning. Now, she is my go-to person for anything and everything for the newspaper.”

Cooper originally decided to join the newspaper because she is passionate about writing. At the time, she was most interested in poetry, but thought journalism would be a good next step. Additionally, journalism was not offered as a class at the school she was transferring from (Princess Anne) so she was excited that it was an option. 

“I actually almost didn’t even get to be in journalism my first year,” said Cooper. “The spots were all full until someone happened to drop and my new guidance counselor was kind enough to call me and ask if I wanted it. So I guess it was fate.” 

According to Trace, “Asha has come out of her shell.” She is more confident and more willing to speak up and share her opinion.

Cooper had a bit of an introduction into a leader position when she became Co-Editor in chief her junior year. That experience prepared her to lead on her own this year. 

“She now seems comfortable in her role as a leader,” said Trace, “She’s also been incredibly helpful during the transition to a virtual paper because she has some experience with website design.”

Through working hard in this position, Cooper has learned a great deal about herself in the process. 

“This role has given me the opportunity to learn more about myself as a person, writer, leader, and teammate,” said Cooper. “But, it has also given me the opportunity to showcase my writing skills and put my writing in print when we still did the printed Newspaper, and online on our website.”  

Cooper’s writing was published on The Virginia Beach City Public School’s “The Core” blog, making her a published author. You can check out that article here.

COVID-19 and virtual learning has led to major changes for everyone, including the journalism staff. Cooper has adapted to those changes, but it isn’t always easy. 

“One of the hardest things for me this past year has been not being able to say a proper goodbye to my senior editor friends from last year,” said Cooper. “I miss them so much, and I worry a bit about the future of newspaper for next year without the same type of in-person bonding experience.” 

Despite this, the silver lining for Cooper is the memories and relationships waiting to be made.

“Without a doubt, the best thing about being on staff is the memories you make with the other staff,” said Cooper. “I feel like you can make friends so quickly in newspaper and the relationships you gain are just so unique and special. We have so much fun together and you can meet people from all different grade levels.” 

While Cooper is heading towards wrapping up her final year of high school, her responsibilities within the newspaper aren’t over just yet. She, along with Trace, will identify and train a new Editor in Chief for the 21-22 school year.

“I hope to find someone new who I can tell right off the bat is really dedicated to the newspaper,” said Cooper. “It will be more difficult this year especially with our time cut in half and by being online, but I think that their potential will show. Most of us returners this year will be graduating, and so the face of the newspaper will be completely different next year. I can’t wait to see what the future will bring.”