If you had told me my freshman year I would be writing for the school newspaper, much less running it, I would not have believed you. When I started I did not like it and was just doing it because I had to. Now saying goodbye is bittersweet. I cannot imagine my college experience without the Talon.
Working on the Talon helped to surround me with people who have had an enormous impact on my life. I became more involved on campus and my network immediately expanded. I got to meet and get to know a lot of people I never would have talked to without the Talon. I have gotten the chance to work with amazing people at the Talon and I truly value the time I’ve had with everyone. The Talon became like family to me. Together we never shied away from hard topics. Since I have been on staff we have covered things like racism and LGBTQ rights on campus, despite backlash from some people.
At times the Talon was the most stressful thing in my life. Learning how to write and inform people of something no one wants to talk about is hard, but so important. Working under constant deadlines and expectations was something that taught me self-discipline that has translated to every area of my life.
Despite all the ups and downs I will never forget the people I worked with and the moments we shared together. Knowing there are no more Monday meetings or emergency phone calls left feels unreal. I will not miss course work and I will not miss this school, but I will miss those moments. The Talon has helped make me not only a better writer, but a more well-rounded person as a whole.
Dr. Patterson: Thank you does not do justice for everything you do for the Talon. In my years here, you have pushed me to become better in every area. You gave me the reins to your paper when I had no clue what I was doing. You challenged me to be more responsible and a better leader, and you helped guide me along the way. I appreciate everything you have done for me and I hope you do not ever change your expectations for the Talon.
Elise and Keaton: I honestly do not even know where to start. You guys are the best leaders anyone could ever ask for. Working under both of you pushed me to be a better person. You both challenged me to always seek the truth and to provide platforms to those who need it. Thank you guys so much.
Reese, Errett, Paige and Morgan: Getting to know all of you was really my pleasure. I loved every off the wall meeting topic we got into. Through the good and the bad I am glad I got to do it with all of you.
To the current staff: You guys are amazing. When I took over I had no idea how big of a responsibility Editor-in-Chief would be, but you guys stuck with me and I appreciate that. Getting to know all of you was one of my favorite parts of the semester. It is your paper now and I know you guys are going to do awesome things with it.
Lastly, I want to thank everyone who has read my articles over the years. I never saw myself as a writer, but despite that there was never a lack of encouragement. Thank you.
At the end of the day being a part of the Talon has been one of the best experiences of my life. It has given me memories I will cherish forever.
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