Here's what a few former Sunflower editors-in-chief say about their experience:

The Sunflower was invaluable to me during my time at Wichita State University. My four years on staff gave me a chance to explore several different areas of the news industry, while building my confidence to eventually go out into the professional world. At The Sunflower, I honed my writing, editing and researching skills, all of helped me succeed in various internships, as well as at the research center where I currently work. Wichita State and its students are made better by The Sunflower and the work of its staff.

- Mia Hennen, 2025 graduate

Editorial assistant, Pew Research Center in Washington, D.C.

Wichita State loves its applied learning, and there’s no better job-training on campus than The Sunflower for students who are serious about pursuing a career in journalism. My four years in the newsroom were a time of growth, exploration and self-realization. The future of journalism hinges on young reporters getting these opportunities.

Matthew Kelly, 2020 graduate

State government reporter, Kansas City Star

"Working at The Sunflower during college allowed me to explore a number of opportunities in a newsroom setting. It also helped me grow as a leader while I was editor of the paper. Without these opportunities, including conferences and outside learning opportunities, my career would not be what it is today."

Kylie Cameron, 2020 graduate Local government reporter, Wichita Eagle

Journalism skills can only be solidified by doing. That includes practicing news judgment, working in a collaborative newsroom environment, interviewing sources, writing, editing, photographing, designing and so much more. The Sunflower laid the foundation for my career. Simply put, without my experience on the staff I wouldn’t have the skillsets and therefore I wouldn’t have landed in working newsrooms after college. 

Shelby Kellerman, 2016 graduate

Managing editor, Wichita Business Journal