September 12, 2024
In 2019 as a freshman in college, I applied for the CONNECT program, which is a multimedia journalism training program for college students and recent grads. I was later denied admission. Since then, I have continued to submit an application. In 2024, I was finally selected as a fellow and was so excited when I got the news.
I attended the National Convention in September in Los Angeles, and it entirely changed my perspective on journalism. I learned from incredible mentors ranging from The New York Times, USA Today, Washington Post, and so much more. A huge shout to program coordinator Jamal, mentors Zach, Salgu, Robert, Aaron and Karen. I saw how passionate they were about their work, and the amount of persistence that led them to their careers.
During the convention itself, I spent the first day reaching out to multiple sources in Los Angeles for my piece on a queer-owned restaurant. After messaging Luv2Eat Thai Bistro through email and Instagram, they graciously welcomed me into their restaurant for an interview. I spoke to Chef Fern and her fiancé, Chef Pla, as well as her sister, Princess Pauleen.
“At first, when we opened, we were quite worried a little bit, you know. But actually, people are so nice. You know, Hollywood area, it’s a lot of LGBTQ+,” she said, “and we are so lucky that like being part of them here, and they are so welcome. It’s overwhelming.”
Every time I step into someone’s restaurant, bar or café, I am so immediately overwhelmed by their hospitality and vulnerability to answer my questions. I am incredibly grateful to write about food because it is such an intimate view into one’s home, culture and identity.
You can watch the entire piece on the CONNECT website here.
From applying multiple times to be a part of this professional development program, to going after story ideas, persistence is one of the most important factors in a journalist. I hope to use this space to reflect on my journey, and thank you for being here for the ride.
hong ta | Food + culture writer 