From Schulenburg to D.C.: My Journey As a National Youth Correspondent

Editor’s Note: Amalia Rorschach, a student at Schulenburg High School, was recently selected to represent Schulenburg as a national youth correspondent to the 2025 Washington Journalism and Media Conference at George Mason University near Washington, D.C.

She shared with us this story as she joined a select group of students from all over the country for an intensive study of journalism and media.

When I first boarded the plane from San Antonio to Washington, I never could have imagined the impact the Washington Journalism and Media Conference would have on my life. Once I arrived, I was immediately met with smiling faces and excitement for the week. That moment was when I knew this week would be life-changing.

From listening to seasoned speakers in the industry and touring D.C.’s most notable monuments, this week left me with so many lasting memories. Seeing so many monuments I had only seen in history textbooks was a larger- than-life experience. One of the most impactful moments came early in the week when Savannah Behrmann of the National Journal spoke about her journey from Nephi, a small town in Utah, to becoming a successful journalist in Washington. Like me, she understood the pride and chal- lenges that come with growing up in a rural community.

After her talk, I asked, “How did you overcome the ‘small-town mentality’ that is so common among young people when growing up in a rural community?” Her answer stuck with me: “If you want it badly enough, you will achieve it. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter where you’re from or what obstacles you’ve faced. What matters is how hard you’re willing to work for it.” In that moment, I realized that no dream is too far-fetched, and if you have the passion, it will happen.

During the week, I was able to see a glimpse of my future as a sports journalist. My favorite part of this experience was touring Monumental Sports Network– the D.C. equivalent of Houston’s Space City Network. Watching a broadcast team in action was a great glimpse into what the industry has to offer.

As the week came to a close, I felt immense feelings of pride, but also sadness. From walking miles along the National Mall, visiting Capitol Hill, listening to inspiring speakers, dancing the night away at the WJMC gala, and making relationships with incredible people, it was very hard to say goodbye to this incredible program. Still, I know this experience was just the beginning of my journey. I came home with a stronger voice, a clearer vision for my future, and a reminder that anyone can dream big.