Currently an op-ed writer for The Peak, Kate Whitcomb joined the paper in hopes of strengthening her writing and team skills. She’s passionate about journalism, as she’s observed its many positive effects on the world. Her go-to source of news is NPR. She appreciates the outlet’s ability to foster genuine interest among their listeners. NPR creates self-starters, or as Kate would put it: “NPR radio station is able to discuss current events in a manner that encourages further comprehension into the matters at hand.” She cites Portland’s history of gentrification as one of the matters that NPR had opened her eyes to. A common strength among those well-versed in current affairs, typically, is history class – and Kate is no exception. According to Kate, it’s her greatest academic strength. She enjoys studying the subject in order to get a better understanding of current events. Outside of academics, Kate is passionate about cooking and food science. She keeps her balance by looking to her mother for motivation, who taught her to always be looking for new skills to master – and to continue to grow, as a person, as you continue to learn.