The hardest part about writing opinion columns, at least for me, is finding a topic that is relevant to my life and interests, as well as those of potential readers. Everyone has an opinion about everything; it’s how our minds work in order for us to make decisions.

The first part of being an opinion columnist is learning how to be a reporter. Reading the opinion section of the paper may not be as important as reading the news, but often we talk about subjects that aren’t discussed in news articles, such as social issues and specialized subjects — or we will just say things that other people wouldn’t dare say on their own.

Then, after the reporting, we obviously state our opinions, which should also be taken into account, as the main focus of reading an opinion column is figuring out a point of view you may not have thought of otherwise. We make you stop and think about the topic, then advise you to form your own opinion.

Sometimes they’re anecdotal pieces, with the intent of making readers laugh or discuss things that seem ordinary. Sometimes we like to get stuff off our chests, but my point is that in reading the opinion section, you’re getting the news with a bit of spice.

We love to hear back from you. Of course, being attacked isn’t our goal, but we do want to hear your side, and we accept the fact that reader comments could change our minds as well. It is good to hear other people’s opinions and to express your own. The week before I write my columns I will be discussing the topic on my column blog with polls, comments, and eventually video at http://sitaheretothere.blogspot.com/. Feel free to discuss your ideas with me.

 — Sarah Tisinger is a sophomore in journalism and mass communication from Bettendorf.