Our team of writers work relentlessly behind the scenes to keep the Nexus site constantly updated, but who are these mysterious Camosun College students who keep us supplied with stories? Wonder no more, as our new series Meet Your Writers will help you get to know the names behind the pieces you read at Nexus.
Today, we get to know contributing writer Emery Whitney.
When did you start writing for Nexus?
In October 2019. Time flies!
What has your best experience been writing for Nexus?
I would say my best experience at Nexus has definitely been the feedback I received on my last article [“A Black woman coping in a white world”]. I really struggled through that piece, so receiving all that positive feedback really helped me understand just how hard I am on myself.
What about the worst? Be honest!
I wouldn’t say this is exclusive to Nexus, but I am definitely an intense overthinker who experiences an overwhelming amount of writer’s block. So, most of the time when I am writing, I despise every word I write up until it gets published—then I finally relax and actually start to appreciate my words. This is definitely something I need to work on!
How have you been managing with the COVID-19 lockdown and other measures?
I mean, have I really been managing? I’ve been eating an immeasurable amount of popcorn and embracing the lazy life! I try to find the silver lining in everything. So, for the most part, I’ve been trying to manage through this by taking a step back and really getting to know myself.
What is the most pressing issue facing Camosun students today and based on what you know being a Nexus writer, what needs to be done about it?
I would say Camosun, as well as most educational institutions, are not actually in it for the students. If I am honest, it feels like a money-grabbing scheme. There should be much more support for students in regard to mental health, financials, and even aid in figuring out what people want to do. In terms of what exactly can be done about this, it’s hard because this is how most businesses and institutions are run—almost everything revolves around money. People are uncomfortable with change, so change is always slow, but with social media being such a huge part of communication nowadays, people are able to voice their own opinions, and I’ve seen a lot of conversation around the need for support in regards to racial, economic, and educational injustices. If we keep demanding change it will guide us in the right direction. And even if we do not see this change, in regard to what the end goal is in our lifetimes—it’s still worth it.
I know this answer is quite vague but this topic deserves a more in-depth and thought-out article!
How can people find you on social media?
I am not hugely into social media, although I am a millennial, so, undoubtedly, I check Instagram every day. You can either reach me via Instagram at @emeriewhitnie or shoot me an email at emerywhitney@gmail.com.