Society of Professional Journalist (SPJ) held their first mixer event in collaboration with The Argo on February 12 at 5:30 P.M. where students were encouraged to join The Argo and newly revamped, SPJ.

Professor Huixin Deng started off the event with a sign in sheet and a survey, to best help understand the students who were interested in journalism. Professor Deng is on a mission to revamp the Society of Professional Journalist and bring back more events benefitting the students that yearn for journalistic opportunities at Stockton University.

When asked of Professor Deng on what she is hoping for the future of SPJ, “I am hoping to bring together all the students who are interested in Journalism and Writing and I look forward to bringing back more workshops such as resume workshops and writing workshops.”

In collaborating with Stockton University’s Argo Independent Newspaper, Deng wanted to gain exposure for students interested in journalism. She made sure to invite the Dean of the School of Arts and Humanities, Ian Marshall, whom had previously earned a Literature degree. She also invited Mary DeRose, the former Editor-in-Chief of The Argo.

The current Editor-in-Chief, Kayla Lavecchia, spoke to students about the Argo and it’s significance since its founding in 1971. She further emphasized that the main goal of The Argo is to have students’ voices heard every week. She mentioned that there is a partnership with the Press of Atlantic City that is fairly new and in the works to provide more opportunities for the writers of Stockton University. Moreover, Lavecchia, mentioned that The Argo has new hiring positions open such as Assistant Editor, Social Media Manager and a Copyeditor for the upcoming fall semester.

“I also think we have really cool opportunities that can help you get paid for your writing and your work” she stated.

The second speaker was Mary DeRose, where she talked about her journey as a Literature major and dual degree in American studies. She worked at a pizza place before she knew she wanted to pursue her passion for writing with The Argo. She eventually became Editor-in-Chief when the former position holder had graduated.

After she became editor, she realized that there were many different career facets she could go into and reminded the students at the mixer that, “It’s just wonderful to know that there’s so many options that you have, and your path does not need to be linear.” DeRose now writes for the Mickey Blog.

Mary Gallagher, a senior at Stockton University, the president of the SJP and a writer with The Argo, was the next speaker at the mixer. Gallagher wanted the students at the mixer to know that there are many ways one can go about the journalism field, and that it doesn’t always “just need to be a hobby.”

She mentioned that connections with staff and students, along with practice and experience in journalism is the best way to get ahead. Gallagher mentions, because SPJ is being revamped, there are many positions open to be filled and can be created for those interested in something particular.

More information can be found on Instagram @spj.stockton and @stocktonargo.