Current Gilroy Dispatch Editor Erik Chalhoub says he’s always been a writer, starting as young as first grade. He worked with his high school’s quarterly creative writing newsletter, received his degree from Cabrillo’s Journalism program learning how to report and interview, and went on to earn a degree in literature at UCSC. However, it was a return to the Journalism program that truly jump started his career.
“After graduation while looking for a job in journalism, I went back to Cabrillo to brush up on my skills and experience. I took some digital media courses and joined the Cabrillo Voice,” says Erik.
Working with the Cabrillo Voice as a reporter and campus editor, Erik gained hands-on experience with lay-out, writing, managing other reporters, and editing.
“This is where it all started, and where I got the experience that I use today. Not only did I work on the Cabrillo Voice, but through the program, I obtained an internship with the Pajaronian. The people there showed me the ropes and I was able to get a real feel for the job.”
Erik stayed with the Pajaronian for nearly eight years (four of them as editor), then he left to work at the Gilroy Dispatch. The Dispatch’s owner later bought the Pajaronian (as well as others) so he’s back as Editor of the Pajaronian, as well as the Dispatch and Los Gatan. He also writes for the Morgan Hill Times, Metro Silicon Valley, and Hollister Free Lance.
See Erik’s Work Samples:
https://www.metrosiliconvalley.com/great-americas-last-ride/
https://gilroydispatch.com/tennis-club-pickleball-players-dispute-over-use-courts/
https://southvalley.com/morgan-hill-car-builder-shares-love-of-mustangs-with-the-world/