As a writer, not knowing what to write is ironic. Just like my start in The Comenian, it took me time to finally write my senior reflection. I didn’t start writing for the paper until the end of my sophomore year because AJ finally convinced me to try.
I was extremely nervous at first because I had never shared my writing with anyone besides peer review in classes. After Professor Harris had read through my first piece and edited it, he left 109 comments. I will never forget the feeling of my soul leaving my body.
Thankfully, my writing has since improved. The experience of writing for The Comenian and the friendships I’ve made because of it are things I’ll always be grateful for. My interviewing and public speaking skills have come a long way, too. These skills proved invaluable during my senior year internship. I felt prepared and confident, largely because of the abilities I had built through crafting articles and talking to people I may never have crossed paths with otherwise.
AJ has always been my “forlifer,” so our friendship has only become stronger. However, my friendships with Logan, Lola, Liz, and everyone else in The Comenian are something I will cherish for a long time.
Professor Harris played a massive role in my love for paper. He always encouraged and supported me, especially with experiences outside of the paper. So, to Professor Harris, thank you so much for everything you have done to support me. I’m going to hold it close to my heart forever.
Balancing all of these experiences with my multiple campus involvements and honor societies has been a challenge. Outside of that, I struggled with personal health issues and family drama, but with the endless support from my peers, I was able to thoroughly enjoy every experience The Comenian had to offer.
Becoming the Sports Editor was a surprise. The section is always so small, but I gained the confidence to step out of my comfort zone.
I started to branch out from sports and wrote my favorite article: “In Mo-moriam of Mo: The History of The Hound.” The research and work I put into that article will forever hold a special place in my heart. I was so proud of that article. I even got the chance to dress up as Amos recently, which sort of completes the college dream for me. Who gets to say they dressed up as the mascot they wrote about? Literally no one ever.
As I finish my last article for The Comenian ever, I’ll leave the future writers with this advice: Don’t be afraid to jump into your writing and interests, even if you think your writing isn’t “good enough.” Growth doesn’t happen overnight, but with every interview, every draft, every comment from an editor, you’ll get better. Embrace the nerves, ask the weird questions, and write the stories that matter to you. Most importantly, enjoy the chaos and the community. You are a part of something special. Cherish that.
