Finn McVann-Henkelmann is one of the most spirited members of the Zephyrus staff. “It’s been a blast, honestly. I dove in headfirst and soaked up every moment,” he said.
Despite being a newcomer this year, he swiftly gained experience in editing, collaboration, and meeting deadlines, which significantly sharpened his writing skills and interviewing techniques. “Zephyrus has taught me a lot of skills that are very applicable to the real world. It’s been a real learning curve, but I’ve grown so much,” he said.
Among his proudest achievements for Zephyrus, he holds a special fondness for his “Barbie” review, a testament to his versatility as a writer. “This piece was one of my first major works on staff, and I am really proud of the effort I put in and the result I got in return,” he said. In his free time, Finn indulges in his love for literature, cinema, and the occasional video game session. However, he continues to brood on his immense hatred of beets, his long standing culinary foe.
When asked about his talents, Finn points to his knack for writing and engaging in intense discussions, often finding his way to win by using his own persuasive skills. As he looks forward, Finn hopes to explore the world, especially the country of Italy.
Looking ahead, Finn hopes to pursue a degree in Creative Writing at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, fueled by a passion for storytelling and the desire to craft compelling narratives. Finn hopes to amplify the voices of people that dont have the means to do so on their own, expressing stories of individuals to provide an accurate portrayal of their lives. “I hope to write a best-selling fiction series one day and increase the amount of disability representation in writing, showing that writing is for everyone,” he said.
Through his infectious enthusiasm and creative endeavors, Finn McVann-Henkelmann represents a spirited and ambitious graduating senior who will be missed by the entire staff next year.
This piece was originally published in Zephyrus’ print edition on May 24, 2024