Every year at St. Edwards, freshmen study a different book in their seminar class. This year was “Dear America” by Jose Vargas. Recently, Vargas visited campus to speak to freshman and aspiring journalists about what it means to be a journalist, what it means to be undocumented in America, and his personal journey to success.
Vargas was fueled by the desire to stand out in a country where he didn’t always feel accepted. “I thought the most rebellious thing I could do was have a byline. I could exist without existing,” he tells students. He lets his passion for journalism drive him to success, and now he could not imagine life without it. “I identify as a journalist more than any other identity.”
Some of Vargas’s accomplishments include being a Pulitzer-Prize winner, being nominated for an Emmy and a Tony, appearing on many news and media platforms, and much more. While his achievements are vast, he explains to students that it was not an easy journey.
He came to America at the age of 12, but Vargas didn’t find out that he was undocumented until 16. He explained that once he found out, there were moments where he would lose hope for his future. He initially wanted to be a film director in school but felt that it wouldn’t be possible based on what he had just discovered.
However, he found hope again through mentorship. One of his teachers told him that he should pursue journalism, and ever since he was devoted. Now, he urges students to “Find a mentor!” A mentor is a guide who can let you know when you may need to rework some of your ideas. Vargas says he is “cursed with ideas,” but still has mentors today who help him weed through them.
Journalism can often be confusing, Vargas discusses with students, especially in a time where Trump leads people to mistrust journalists and the media. Vargas explains how it is now more important than ever for us to report. He often sits down with people who have very different worldviews. “My job as a journalist is to talk to people who may not agree with me and try to understand where they’re coming from,” he states, and describes that one of the best forms of practice for journalists is “dealing with people who have a very different set of facts.”
Vargas also explains how he grapples with labels. He does not only refer to himself as an activist. Speaking of his assigned labels he also says, “I’m not an undocumented journalist and filmmaker. I’m a journalist and filmmaker who happens to be undocumented.”
While advising the room of aspiring journalists, Vargas bared the harsh truth that “journalism is not for lazy people, if you don’t feel the hunger to do it, don’t do it.” The room filled with active listeners and budding questions, as Vargas explained his way of looking at his work. “I don’t care what others think. Excellence comes from within.” He also advised students that when writing to try and “narrate the self without erasing other people.”
From topics of working in the journalism world to current events, Vargas proved to be an inspiration to many. He spoke of his struggles and overcoming. His work is not done, however, and he still continues to research, explore, interview, and document our world.
As a final statement on journalism, Vargas says to students, “Once you learn what craft is, then it’s time to get good.”