As I reflect on the past four years, I come across many steppingstones that brought me to this exact moment.
I remember hearing about The Talon through my older sister, Megan, who was a copy editor during her time here. I never knew the impact that being a part of this team would have on me when I walked into the Newsroom for the first time as a freshman.
I remember walking into the Newsroom for the first time feeling extremely nervous for my first day officially on staff as a reporter. As the year went on, I learned how to confidently write better articles with clearer quotes and transitions. During this time, I learned the unique balance of reporting and writing, and how these two work so seamlessly together once you really learn the system.
Of course, I also experienced challenges with learning AP rules and how to properly format quotes. However, with the immense help from Dominic Bonocore, the Editor-In-Chief of 2022-23, I was able to learn this unique writing style quickly.
Throughout my time here, I also got involved with other areas of campus. I joined Lambda Chi Zeta, which taught me the importance of leadership skills when I was rush director. It also taught me the importance of genuine connections while you’re in college. I will never forget this group of amazing girls.
In addition to this, I was able to be a social media intern for Marketing & Creative Services on campus from 2024-2026. I want to give a special shoutout to my wonderful boss, Kelly Araujo, for believing in me and being patient when I knew nothing about social media or editing yet. I am forever grateful for this opportunity and for the amazing team behind every creative project on our campus.
Not only was I able to be a part of just one office on campus, but I became an official tour guide of campus in the summer of 2024 for Admissions. I’m so thankful for my boss, Mitzi Tugman, for being such an amazing example in my life, and for constantly cheering me on. I was able to meet so many people throughout this position, and it truly helped me to reflect on the necessity of conversations.
Finally, I want to give three important shoutouts to those who were a part of The Talon who inspired me to become not only a better writer, but a better person, too. Dr. Patterson, thank you for believing in me when I knew nothing about reporting or the process of interviewing. You have shown me what it means to think critically and how to live out my fullest potential. Faithanna Olsson, thank you for being such a genuine person who showed me what it means to be an Editor-In-Chief of a newspaper. You are doing great things, and I am so proud of you. Emily Forster, thank you for constantly being efficient with your editing, and being so down to earth as a person.
As I step through the Newsroom door one last time, I will never forget the moments that brought me to the person I am today and who I am becoming.
Be First to Comment