WELCOME!My name is Somer Sodeman, and I am the Co-Editor-in-Chief of Ceniad.
I first joined yearbook my sophomore year as a writer, then Copy Editor as a junior, and my last year as Co-Editor-in-Chief. Along the way I attended MIPA Summer Camp for two years taking "Writing and Packaging the News" and, "The Bobby Hawthorne Experience." In addition, I also attended East Lansing info's Summer Youth Journalism Program, Summer Youth Investigative Journalism Program, and worked as a paid writer. Yearbook and Journalism has taught me how to truly listen to others and has given me the chance to elevate underrepresented voices.
Inspired by my freshman year English teacher, I joined Ceniad in hopes of gaining relationships and learning more about my peers. And it provided me with exactly that and more. After three years on staff, I'm proud to say that Ceniad has not only given me three of my closest friends and community, but it has given me the privilege to get to know so many people I would've never known. |
Resume
Words from my Co-Editors-in-Chief
“Somer has been the biggest influence on me throughout my time on the Ceniad staff. During our time at MIPA camp before our second year on staff, I watched Somer’s writing grow significantly. She was always looking for more in-depth stories to tell, and she became more confident in her writing. Although she was an excellent writer, she really showed her talent and passion through editing. She would sit down with someone and work through their whole story with them, and when she was done, it would be transformed. We also worked on more abstract copy for the book, like the opening, closing, and dividers. Writing these can be sort of uncomfortable, but Somer made the process much easier just by being supportive and working through all of it with me. Even though we don’t really need each other to sit through and help with our stories anymore, every time I write a story, I have Somer look over it so that she can give her feedback. Once Somer gives her stamp of approval, I know my story is done. I am so lucky to have had Somer by my side throughout the past three years on staff. She has pushed me, and everyone else, to be the best we can be. I have been lucky to read her stories, lead alongside her, and watch her become a perceptive and talented writer, along with an all-around incredible journalist.” Amalia Medina
“I have been honored to work alongside Somer for the past three years. Somer has unparalleled writing skills. She never shies away from taking a risk. Every story she does, she jumps in head first to find unique angles and uplifts a voice. It is not only her skill that impresses me, but it is how Somer’s love for Journalism permeates into her writing. The smile on her face and the energy she radiates when she is telling me about a story she is working on inspires me to do better and make designs that reflect her passion. Somer is also incredibly humble. She is always willing to work one-on-one with staff members and creates an environment where they feel confident and happy with their writing. Ceniad is so lucky to have someone as kind, smart, and talented as Somer.” Maybelle Newcombe
“Somer is the best type of leader. When working in teams and one-on-one with writers, she's kind, encouraging, and motivating. At the same time, Somer’s not afraid to lift her team up when they’re struggling, even if it involves a little tough love. Not only is Somer an incredible leader, but she is a remarkable Journalist. She isn’t afraid to write stories that touch on uncomfortable or emotional topics. Her ability to story tell is what makes her stories so authentic.” Kali Francisco