I first found journalism in the sixth grade at Imus Pilot Elementary School back in the Philippines. It was my first time competing, yet I unexpectedly won third place in our Divisional School Press Conference and qualified for regionals. I spent my first birthday away from family in another province because of that trip. I did not advance to nationals, but I carried home something far more lasting: the joy of learning and the excitement of finding a voice through campus journalism.

As I moved into middle school and high school, I explored different categories: editorial cartooning, editorial writing, and broadcasting. What never left my heart, however, was the dream of being part of an editorial board. At the time, becoming an editor-in-chief felt distant, almost unreachable, yet the thought lingered quietly in the back of my mind.

Everything shifted when I moved. I arrived in a new place with no connections, a clean slate. In the spring of 2025, when I joined journalism, it didn’t take Mr. Valdez and Maddy long before they pulled me aside to offer me the role of managing editor. I was eager and grateful. It felt natural to step into the team, to begin shaping the content of our magazine, and to see the effort we poured in turn into something tangible we could share.

Now, as I enter my senior year, I hold onto the same vision: to continue what we began last year, a magazine that reflects not only our creativity but also the community we have built within this classroom. From in-depth stories that highlight student voices to lighter pieces on culture and campus life, Stagg Online will serve as a space where our community can stay informed, engaged, and connected.

Journalism has been a constant in my life since sixth grade; it has become one of the threads that shape who I am and who I continue to grow into.

With love,

Savannah Advincula

Editor-In-Chief