Each semester, The Granite Tower (GT) adds a "cherry on top" to its members - a rather large one at that. New cub reporters are welcomed into the GT family, each brimming with potential and excitement. These new recruits are accepted after having gone through a long and challenging recruitment process: an application form, a written test, and a final interview. Select reporters were accepted this semester, all from different backgrounds and majors; yet, they show a unified, collective passion for writing and communication, and expectations are high as to what changes they might bring to GT in the future.

This year, a total of 20 people applied to GT, and eight applicants soared above the required conditions. Of course, good English and writing skills were put into consideration, but there were a few other qualities the editors prioritized. As GT’s Editor-in-Chief Jie Yeowon (’21, International Studies) says, they also wanted “writers who would adapt to GT while providing it with a fresh new perspective.” She adds how they sought out applicants with “passion” and “professionality” and how it was essential that recruits demonstrate engagement and involvement with GT above all else. GT interviewed five of its cub reporters to get to know them better, as well as their prospects as a reporter. The following are answers provided by cub reporters Choi Sooyeon (’22, Classical Chinese), Giorgio Gheorghi Cioffi (‘21, Linguistics), Park Jaewon (‘21, Economics), Ekin Sevinc (‘21, Linguistics), and Son Chaewan (’22, International Studies).

GT: What made you apply for GT?
Park: I first learned about GT through the newspaper displays dotted around campus, with its glossy colorful covers popping out amongst the grayscales. But I only got to truly appreciate it after one of my friends introduced me to some of its articles. While reading through that edition, I thought, “I want to be a part of this,” so I applied as soon as I got the chance.
Cioffi: There is not one single reason behind my choice, but rather a complex desire to communicate. On one side of the coin, I wanted to help provide unbiased insight on numerous social issues, so that the conversation between Korean students and international students can keep evolving; on the flip side, it simply felt like a golden chance to become a more assertive and accurate communicator, as my field of studies - linguistics - heavily relies on such skills.
Sevinc: I applied to GT because I was amazed by the existence of a magazine that both Korean and foreign students can relate to. I subscribed to GT last semester and had e-mails sent to me that involved the latest issues’ articles. Reading the magazine online made me realize how much I wanted to be a part of it. I think a magazine is something bigger than one person can imagine, it is multiple people coming together and creating something that each one of us can relate to.

GT: What was the most memorable part of the recruitment process?
Choi: The written test was difficult because of the time pressure, but during the interview, the interviewees created a comfortable atmosphere, so I was able to fully appeal my strengths and the answers I had prepared. The most memorable part was when they asked me for a piece to write about in the art section, and I replied with The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera. The Editor-in-Chief said she loved that book too, and that’s when I felt that this was the club for me.
Son: I think the written test was the most memorable part of the recruitment process. I was nervous having to write in a hurry for two hours, but it is an honor to be accepted as a GT cub reporter!
Cioffi: What I think captivated me the most was the type of questions asked during the final interview: that made me instantly realize GT was not about unconsciously following orders, but in actuality its foundations lay on proactive participation every step of the way.
Sevinc: Most memorable part was the interview! The atmosphere was welcoming, and the questions targeted the skills I had as well as my purpose for applying, but I still got stressed because it was my first official interview. Also, the writing test was quite challenging because of the time limit but it was not impossible which I think made it good.

GT: What are you looking forward to the most during your time as a GT reporter?
Choi: When I attended the item meeting, I was able to feel the great affection and passion GT reporters had for our school, society, art, and science, so I am looking forward to working with them. I hope I get to enhance my writing skills and English skills, as well as learn how to work together as a team. Also, as a reporter, I am expecting to find myself paying more attention to various events and gaining insight through deeper thinking.
Son: I am most excited to gather students’ opinions through a survey and write an article reflecting those data. Also, I’m looking forward to conducting interviews myself.
Park: I’m very excited for the coming months I’ll be spending as the GT’s cub reporter. I look forward to working with all the skilled and talented members of GT, learn how to become a proper reporter, and hopefully be able to create great content that GT readers will enjoy.