Image courtesy of Joshua vu

After Sofia’s received her award, many staff members and close classmates celebrated this remarkable accomplishment with her.

Due to the school’s admiration for Staff Writer Sofia Nevarez’s recent article, it has been awarded as one of the “Best of SNO.” With Sofia’s brilliant writing skills and eagerness, she has brought Segerstrom its first national recognition award.

Student Newspaper Online (SNO) is the publishing site of hundreds of high school and college newspapers in the United States. It has recognized only around 250 schools from over 500 participating schools. But, there are a variety of other categories school journalists can apply to. They look for unique stories that are engaging, resonating, and professional. Sofia’s story about her blindness encapsulates all of SNO’s principles.

“Before joining journalism, I had thought I should write about [my blindness], but I didn’t consider it too much. And then Mrs. Conferti encouraged me to write an article about it,” Sofia Nevarez (12) mentioned. “When I decided to, it was selected for Best of SNO.”

The article’s positive impressions on students and staff prompted Journalism advisor, Sherri Conferti to nominate the article for the “Best of SNO.” This would be the first article to be accepted for the prestigious award in the five-year history of Segerstrom News.

“When I had Sofia enrolled in my class, I was excited for the opportunity to help her [and] also find her voice in writing. I wanted to make sure that we didn’t squander this opportunity. To not only help her work on her writing and journalistic skills,” Conferti remarked. “I wanted to encourage Sofia to write about something that I think would be impactful for our community to hear.”

Alongside Mrs. Conferti’s unwavering support, Editor-in-Chief of Print Media Bushra Syed (12) has also played a part in Sofia’s contributions to Segerstrom News. Although Nevarez joined Segerstrom News this year, Syed admires her talents in writing.

“I only met Sofia this year… [but] I really appreciate all of the work she’s put into our publication [a]nd for validating our organization,” Syed stated. “I think that she’s a great writer and she deserves the recognition.”

An initial response to Nevarez’s award was a reception by both students and several faculty members. Orchestrated by Principal David Casper and Mrs. Conferti, the surprise celebration was their way to highlight the monumental work Sofia has done for Segerstrom.

“Honestly I was really surprised when I found out I received [the award]. I didn’t really expect to, [s]o it’s just sinking in,” Sofia Nevarez commented. “Especially because I am new to journalism. It was just great to receive it.”

The faculty members who work with Sofia closely believe that it’s well deserved. They are proud of her being recognized for her determination and talent. Especially as they saw her passion go beyond journalism in a multitude of ways.

“I am very proud of her. She has put in the work throughout the year. I’ve known Sofia since 2015,” John Garcia, SAUSD Teacher for the Visually Impaired, discussed. “As far as what she has done, I expect a lot of her because she has put in a lot of time. She’s had a passion for reading and writing since I’ve known her and so this is a great reward for her.”

Others congratulate Nevarez on her pursuit of accomplishing amazing feats. They are proud of he for receiving the proper recognition she has earned. They comment on her ability to overcome and go beyond any obstacle.

“I think it’s fantastic [that I] represent someone who is visually impaired and is able to challenge herself. And to be able to accomplish what she has is just amazing,” Mild-Moderate Case Carrier for Special Education, Jill Burger replied. “Her perseverance… is just fabulous.”

Beyond Segerstrom News, Sofia is bound for phenomenal opportunities and possibilities. She has already created a legacy at Segerstrom with this award alone. With her expertise and inspiring personality, she has become a role model for being an exemplary scholar and person.