Today, we sit down with Genesis Viruet, a name synonymous with passion and leadership at The Lafayette Drop, where she serves as the esteemed editor-in-chief. As a senior in the Computer Science pathway at PASE, Genesis exemplifies a rare blend of technical acumen and creative flair. 

In this interview, we delve into the mind of a young leader who is a beacon of inspiration. Join us as we explore the journey, challenges, and aspirations of a trailblazer shaping the future of student journalism

Felder: Before we jump into this interview, let’s have a little fun. What’s your favorite food? 

Genesis: That’s a difficult question. Umm, my mom’s food

Felder: Favorite Color?

Genesis: Purple

Felder: Favorite Sneaker? 

Genesis: Umm I like New Balances.

Felder: So tell me a little more about yourself. Who is Gensis outside of school and the newspaper? 

Genesis: Um, I’m just a person trying to exist. I like to play the piano. I dance at church and I also enjoy watching Youtube in my free time. Anything that keeps me interested in the moment, I’ll just do it.

Felder: How do your pursuits connect back to your position in the newspaper?

Genesis: It connects because if I ever feel like writing something and if it piques my interest enough, I’ll write and hopefully it turns out good.

Felder: So Editor-in-Chief is a big position. Alongside the advisors, you essentially run the newspaper. How do you feel about stepping into such a demanding role?

Genesis: It’s sort of pressuring because I feel like if I mess up they’re going to kick me out (laughing). Just kidding. I feel it gives me more responsibilities which pushes me to do better.

Felder: Right, so as the editor-in-chief, this is essentially your paper. What direction do you want to take it in?

Genesis: I hope students can become engaged in the paper. When they want to look for important information in the school and our community, they can turn to us for that information.

Felder: How does it feel to lead a staff or to have a staff?

Genesis: I don’t know. I never had it before so it’s kind of like something you just have to used to. And it adds more responsibility because you have to lead all the people so you don’t bring the newspaper down.

Felder: How do you think this position will help develop you as a leader?

Genesis: I feel like it will help me become a better writer and speaker so in the future I can know how to look for and present information for other people to digest.

Felder: So what do you think is the hardest part of your role?

Genesis: The hardest part would have to be keeping up with stories. I assign a lot of stories so it’s hard to stay on top of who’s doing what. We also have schoolwork to do. So it’s hard to keep up with the stories on top of the work we get. 

Felder: Do you know Lisberma and Yamilka?

Genesis: No.

Felder: Well, they were the previous editors. Lisberma was the founding editor of the newspaper. They both were A+, honor roll students and went on to do amazing things. Lisberma is at Vassar College, one of the top schools in the nation, and Yamilka was a Questbridge winner. How do you feel stepping into a role that those two had? Do you feel pressured?

Genesis: I didn’t feel pressure until you said that (laugh). Maybe a little bit. At the end of the day, everyone is different. I will just keep going with the flow because I can’t change anything about me.

Felder: Is there anything you would like to add?

Genesis: You guys should join the newspaper club! It’s really fun. You have the freedom to express yourself and write stories that interest you that others may not want to report on. We also just got new podcast equipment so you could develop your show!