Passion for writing brings new reporter to town

Correct spelling is the law for newspapers. Especially for unusual names. And especially for my first week on the job as the Sentinel's new reporter.

I grew up in Salt Lake City, a fact which explains the weird spelling of my name - Utah parents love to get creative, and in a state filled with Madysens and Saydees, my version of Caroline is relatively tame.

After graduating from high school, I moved to Connecticut to study English at Yale. Though I loved to read and discuss brick-thick Victorian novels with my fellow book nerds, I discovered that my true passion was writing. During my last two years at Yale, I entered the writing concentration program and began studying journalism in earnest.

When I received an email alert about a reporting job at the Sentinel, I sent in my application that very day. I looked forward to getting to know the Wrangell community, seeing the gorgeous sights of Southeast, and improving my journalism chops. Three job interviews, four flights and five pieces of luggage later, I touched down Aug. 10 at the Wrangell airport, sleep deprived but excited.

So far, my Wrangell experience has exceeded expectations. From the moment I stepped off the plane I have been overwhelmed with generosity from the community. I've eaten fresh crab, picked homegrown sugar snap peas that tasted more like dessert than vegetables, and received kitchen essentials like pans and a dish rack to help turn my apartment into a home.

I've also benefitted from the editorial expertise and community knowledge of my colleagues. Marc, Amber and Larry take my endless stream of questions in stride. I look forward to watching my writing improve as I report alongside them.

However, I don't just want to report on the Wrangell community - I want to become a part of it by getting to know all of you. In the spirit of getting to know each other, here are a few facts about me:

I'm an enthusiastic - though not very fast - runner. If you see me jogging out by the 2 Mile marker, feel free to say hi! I'll give you and out-of-breath hello and an exhausted wave in return.

I'm also an avid hiker, but my justifiable fear of being mauled by a bear has prevented me from exploring any trails alone. If you're in the market for a hiking buddy, don't hesitate to reach out.

I love recommending books to friends, painting and writing bad sonnets. I am striving to overcome my addiction to caffeine.

Most importantly, I am unbelievably excited to be living in Wrangell and I look forward to my time here.