I had a plan before arriving on campus. I had read the horror stories about joining too many clubs or getting caught up in the Harvard “bubble.” In my notes app, I kept a list of the organizations I was eager to join after hours of research—Expressions Dance Company, the Institute of Politics, and WHRB (Harvard Radio Broadcasting)—each of which I am still a part of today. Yet there was one organization I had never considered, let alone heard of, that has become the most pivotal part of my Harvard experience. Now approaching my senior year, I cannot help but be so beyond thankful for the Harvard Independent.
As a freshman, 12 Arrow St. was a fascinating place to me. I learned that every Monday, the Independent meets to plan articles for the upcoming issue. I let the surrounding discussions on the latest campus news fall to a low buzz in the back of my mind as my attention shifted to the space around me: headlines, designs, photographs, art pieces, and newspaper articles filled the room. Once white plaster, the walls were covered with the faces and covers that conveyed the powerful history of this publication.
When it was my turn to speak, I nervously read through the dozens of ideas I had prepared for my first official “Storyboard” meeting as an Independent comper. The pitch I landed on, a feature on student-created matchmaking sites called “Campus Cupid, Coded,” became my first article, edited by my friend and former Independent President Eliza Kimball ’25.
What followed was an unexpected journey: two and a half years filled with investigative reporting about the doxxing truck on Harvard’s campus, on-the-ground video coverage of the University encampment, countless visits to art markets and local shows, shedding light on the complexities of Harvard’s mental health policies, interviews with incredible students, and coverage of the latest events “In The News.” That first Storyboard eventually led me to become Associate News Editor, then News Editor, Managing Editor, and now, Editor-in-Chief.
As I’ve held these positions throughout my time at the Indy and navigated my own Harvard journey, the past few years have been nothing short of tumultuous. From my first steps onto campus, I quickly realized that the “Harvard experience” was different from what I had expected it to be, and amid the incredible opportunities the University offers, there were difficult conversations that needed to be had.
During FUP (First-Year Urban Program), on-campus bulletin boards, across student messaging platforms, and in the Independent office, I learned from my peers the blemishes Harvard hides. Whether it was criticism of building names, the University’s historical ties to slavery, its role in global inequalities, or other systemic problems, I quickly learned that those around me had no hesitation in voicing their concerns about the institution we attended. I listened, did my research, and, over time, developed my own perspectives. The ability to openly recognize and critique the faults of the college we attend—and then work together to figure out how to address them—is what I believe to be one of the most powerful aspects of this University. It’s also one of the reasons I became so drawn to the Indy.
We belong to no one but ourselves. What initially was a mission statement I passively read while sitting in the Indy newsroom has become one of the most important statements of my journalistic career. The Indy refuses to let University norms or societal expectations confine our authorial freedom. We speak openly about what is right, what is wrong, and what needs attention—then we translate these conversations into our paper. The power of storytelling in journalism and the independence to do so within the Indy has only deepened my excitement to step into the role of Editor-in-Chief. I’m eager to build on the incredible work accomplished by my predecessor, Andrew Spielmann ’25.
The need for a free press is more urgent than ever. As journalists, we must seek out stories, listen to all perspectives, and report the facts. Journalism remains essential in holding institutions accountable, keeping the public informed, and sparking critical conversations that drive meaningful action. But as journalists continue to tell the story of the world around us, the responsibility for progress is then left up to you as readers, thinkers, and changemakers.
When you engage with our paper, I hope you find the same sense of discovery and purpose that I did when I first walked into 12 Arrow St. Although I hadn’t planned on joining the Independent, taking that leap has allowed me to pursue my passion for public service and advocacy in ways I never imagined. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most rewarding experiences come from stepping outside your plan and following your instincts.
As I begin my journey as Editor-in-Chief, I hope to instill the importance of taking risks, listening to the opinions of my fellow student body, and illuminating the stories of my peers that are often ignored among our staff and readers. As the Independent continues to evolve, tackle big stories, and hold a mirror to our institution, we hope you’ll join us and create the conversations that spark real change—not only on our campus but in the world beyond.
This is what makes the Indy and Harvard so unique: the freedom to question, to challenge, and to act. So, let’s keep pushing the boundaries, telling the stories that matter, and building a community that is always evolving and striving to be better. The journey isn’t over, and we’d love for you to be a part of it.
Layla Chaaraoui ’26 (laylachaaraoui@college.harvard.edu) is the Editor-in-Chief of the Harvard Independent, and she could not be more excited.