Hoffman, who graduated from Amherst Steele High School in 2021 and received a Trustee Scholarship to LCCC, said her love for reading and writing – both of which she struggled with as a child – ultimately led her into journalism. She originally wanted to be a lawyer, and even did some job shadowing experience with one, but during the process she found her calling. 

“I saw a court reporter and just fell in love with the idea of journalism,” she said. “I also know that journalism is the best way to get published and build credentials in the writing world.” 

Hoffman began building the foundation for that career at LCCC, working toward an associate in arts and humanities degree and a one-year certificate in journalism. Beyond learning and practicing the fundamental skillsets journalists use daily, Hoffman began to see an evolution of her inner self.  

“I often had trouble talking to strangers and approaching them, something that, as a journalist, isn’t really that good,” she said. “LCCC and my teachers there helped me come out of that shell and move forward.” 

In spring 2022, Anthony gave her the chance to apply her newfound confidence, making her editor of The Collegian.  

“There was no question in my mind that Lauren would be an outstanding editor for The Collegian because of her enterprising trait,” Anthony said.  

In the role, Hoffman earned two first-place awards in the Press Club’s 2022 Excellence in Journalism contest. One story explored the disconnect between those alive during the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Center and those born after. The other featured LCCC professor Maria McConnell, who says getting the COVID-19 vaccine saved her life. 

“The awards have been absolutely amazing,” Hoffman said. “They acknowledged the hard work and intense research that went into my writing and recognized my ability to take these national and global issues and find the human-interest side to them.” 

Hoffman added that Anthony’s guidance has helped her hone her journalistic style and explore the areas of reporting that interest her most. He’s also encouraged her to continue working on her creative writing, which she says she harbors a deep-seeded appreciation for. And knowing Anthony stands behind her writing skills – both fact-based and imaginative – has made beginning a career as the youngest staff writer The Morning Journal has ever hired an easy progression.  

“He helped me continue to grow my love and passion in writing and is the reason I am working in the field today,” Hoffman said. “Without his help, I would not be working in my career field already nor would I be flourishing.” 

Hoffman graduated in December 2022, but is returning in May to attend LCCC’s commencement ceremony, alongside her father who’s also graduating, and celebrate her milestone. She plans to continue her education and earn her bachelor’s degree and doctorate. One day Hoffman hopes to report on global issues for The New York Times or The Washington Post, but for now she’s focused on building her portfolio of published work and gaining experience as a newly minted reporter. And she’s appreciative of LCCC and The Collegian, where her career truly began. 

“This college helped reignite my confidence and self-love and helped me grow into the journalist and writer I am today,” Hoffman said. “LCCC helped me achieve my dreams.”