Emma Machell, a West Junior High eighth-grader, left, and Patrick Shields, a Bishop Seabury Academy eighth-grader are members of Angle, the Journal-World teen advisory board that invites area youths to learn more about aspects of journalism, including brainstorming, writing, interviewing and advertising. Top: Angle members routinely contribute to features in the Pulse section.

I have been a member of the Journal-World’s Angle (previously Teen Board) for four years. In that time, I have learned about writing, interviewing, advertising and brainstorming; taken multiple tours of the 6News building; had four of my articles published in the paper; and met other people my age who are interested in writing.

The group has grown considerably in the past couple of years, but misconceptions still seem to keep a lot of students from giving it a chance.

It seems that a lot of students imagine Angle as something similar to English class: We sit quietly in desks; we are given assignments at each meeting; perfect attendance is expected of us. I have even heard rumors that you need a writing sample to get in.

The truth is, Angle is nothing like that. The meetings are once a month, but it’s OK if you occasionally can’t make it. When we’re there, we eat junk food and we brainstorm, along with many other things.

At some meetings, we get to talk with people who work at the Journal-World and Lawrence.com, such as photographers, sports and entertainment journalists and advertising account executives. At others, we might tour the News Center, practice interviewing people for an article, learn how to format a spread, watch the newspapers print or be in our own podcast. Every meeting’s different, and every meeting’s fun.

In this low-pressure environment, Angle also offers an incredible amount of opportunity. Because of Angle, I know what it’s like to interview people, I have a vague idea of how to use the software used by the Journal-World, and I’ve talked to real journalists about what it’s like to work for the newspaper.

Most importantly, Angle members have the opportunity to get published. This gives us real journalism experience – something that’s helpful even if you don’t intend to pursue journalism as a career – and it looks great on a college application.

Angle is growing for a reason. It’s fun and interesting, and when kids join, they tend to like it. I recommend it for any kid grades 6-12, especially if that kid likes to write.