Over the last five years, I have worked for four student-led newspapers. I can confidently say that they all pale in comparison to the Northern Iowan. When I transferred to campus last year, I knew I wanted to get involved with the paper to continue my passion. When I first met Caroline and Sophie at a tabling event, I could have never known just how great my life was about to become.
The newsroom has become more like home and my fellow journalists have become my family. I love you all so much and cannot wait to see the incredible things you accomplish. I have been truly blessed to work alongside you all to share the stories of our peers.
Estelle, what can I even say. In just 30 weeks, you’ve basically become a sister to me. I’ll miss catching up with you by the library and seeing your funny pages every week. I look forward to our next sleepover and celebrating your birthday this summer. Your smiling face is always a bright spot in my week.
Bailey, your drive and passion is truly astounding. Watching you lead us through content droughts and interpersonal conflicts in the layout room has been so amazing. Any organization would be lucky to have you and you will do great things — no matter where you end up.
Cohen, despite previous accusations, I don’t entirely hate you. You’re the glue of the group – I can always count on you to make a snide comment or quick joke. Seeing you grow as a writer these last weeks has been so fun. I’ll miss your infectious humor, but at least I’ll always have that hot dog mug to remind me of our time together.
Jenna, you have such a knack for people. While I’ve not known you as long, I always look forward to seeing what you have to say. Through the conversations we have had, there is no doubt to me that you will be a force to be reckoned with.
Antonia, you’re simply the best. Thank you for always catching my oxford commas and “I before E” mistakes. You have such a keen eye and passion, two things that I could only hope for. Hopefully you’ve rubbed off on me a bit.
Luis, your quiet presence is remarkable. Through all the office chaos, you never fail to stay calm and centered. While I don’t always understand what you write, I know you lead your team with the same energy and determination that I get to see every week. We truly are so lucky to have you on our team.
Chris and Anelia, thank you. For supporting us, for pushing us, for gently guiding us toward stories. I am, no doubt, a better writer and person thanks to your presence in my life.
I am excited for the next phase of my life. Moving back home to my family and entering the workforce seems like an exciting journey, but it will be bittersweet. The closer I get to graduation, the more I’ve realized that two years was not enough to soak in the Panther experience. I’ll be leaving a bit of my soul behind in a campus I’ve only begun to experience.
So, dear reader, I’ll leave you with a small piece of advice I received just a few short months ago. “I empower you.” It’s a phrase I started using mostly ironically thanks to Wilson, but has pushed me into some of the biggest and bestest experiences so far. I empower you to go out. Apply for an editorial role you feel unqualified for, you might just get it. Talk to the weird girl in your class, she might actually be really cool. Pick up a newspaper, you might read something important.
