Background
In October 2023, I had the extraordinary opportunity to collaborate with Business Insider. Guided by seasoned journalists Frank Olito and Mo Mitchell, I embarked on a journey to write my debut article. This piece focused on my experiences at the New York University Stern School of Business, known for its cutthroat and overly competitive environment. I chose an unconventional narrative — unraveling myths and revealing the true essence of Stern — to offer authentic insights and provide the "Insider" perspective on the school's culture. The process of bringing this story to life was as enriching as it was challenging. Through numerous revisions, my article evolved, reflecting the growth in my skills and perspective. Collaborating with various editors from the Business Insider team, I refined my ability to craft a narrative that was not only true to my vision but also aligned with Business Insider’s standards of clarity, conciseness, and impact.
My role encompassed in-depth research, narrative development, and aligning my article with Business Insider’s journalistic standards, while preserving the authenticity of my personal insights.
Problem
Challenging stereotypes and conventional thinking often leads to controversy, as it is rare to find a viewpoint universally accepted. Disagreements are an inherent aspect of diverse opinions. Nevertheless, presenting arguments with clarity and respect is crucial. My objective is not necessarily to change opposing views but to gain respect through well-reasoned counter-arguments. This approach underpins the article I wrote.
In said article, I acknowledge certain stereotypes have a basis in reality, and I respect the concerns raised in this context. Yet, at the same time, I observed a tendency for the positive characteristics of the subject to be eclipsed by negative stereotypes. While focusing on controversial aspects might garner more attention, I chose a different path. My objective was to stay true to my beliefs and present an authentic viewpoint that uplifts rather than demeans, offering a perspective that is both reflective of my convictions and supported by solid reasoning.
My hope is that by contributing my perspective, I am adding constructively to the broader conversation. This approach demonstrates that engaging and respectful discourse is possible without resorting to sensationalism. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my thoughts and hope they find resonance with others, thereby enriching our collective understanding.
Strategy
My approach to challenging preconceptions and offering real insights involved:
- Conducting a deep dive into personal experiences and extensive research to debunk myths about Stern.
- Collaborating with Business Insider editors to refine the narrative for clarity and impact.
- Balancing personal insights with journalistic integrity to create a compelling and truthful article.
Journey and Execution
I began by reflecting on my time at Stern, complementing these memories with discussions with peers and faculty. This approach ensured a multi-faceted view of the school's culture. My initial narrative focused on personal anecdotes and broader observations about Stern. Research included delving into the school's history, achievements, and culture. Throughout the process, I engaged in iterative feedback with the Business Insider team, refining the narrative for greater clarity and impact.
Key insights from my research and interactions included:
- Stern's reputation for competitiveness often overshadows its collaborative and supportive environment.
- Personal stories and experiences offer a more authentic and relatable view than generic descriptions.
- Readers are drawn to narratives that challenge preconceptions and offer new perspectives.
The drafting process involved multiple revisions, each sharpening the core message and ensuring the narrative was engaging and informative.
Result
The final article presented a balanced view of Stern, blending personal experiences with broader insights. Key features:
- Personal Touch: The piece was enriched with personal anecdotes from the author's experiences, providing a unique and intimate glimpse into the world of Stern.
- Factual Depth: Alongside these narratives, the article provided robust factual information about Stern, ensuring that the personal stories were grounded in broader, verifiable insights.
- Engaging Narrative Style: The writing style was particularly narrative-driven, designed to captivate readers. It effectively challenged prevailing stereotypes about Stern, encouraging readers to see beyond common perceptions.
- Incorporation of Feedback: Critical to maintaining journalistic integrity, the article integrated feedback from various sources. This approach ensured that the personal voice of the writer did not overshadow the factual accuracy and neutrality expected in journalism.
My debut article in was published on November 30, 2023. The piece not only offered a fresh perspective on Stern's culture but also resonated with Business Insider’s audience, reflecting in:
- Over 100,000 article views, indicating a high level of engagement and interest among Business Insider's readership.
- A new, enhanced understanding and appreciation of Stern among readers.
- Deeper insights into aspects of Stern that are often unspoken in the media or online, offering fresh perspectives and challenging conventional views.
Learnings
Overall, this project highlights the power of narrative journalism in challenging stereotypes and emphasized the importance of balancing personal insight with factual accuracy. Looking ahead, I am eager to pursue more narrative journalism opportunities, delving into various topics and continuing to blend personal insights with broader societal themes.
