Finally getting to a point in my collegiate career where I am able to write this is strange and sad, to say the least. The 2021 version of myself would have never imagined the amount of growth that has transformed the once shy and anxious girl in the past three and a half years at college. I’m sad that it’s almost over, but so happy that I have had this opportunity to be a part of The Pacer for the past two years.
My start with The Pacer was nothing short of interesting. I remember Jordan Stringfield, one of my lifelong friends who has been with me every step of the way, asking me if I wanted to fill the position of Sports Editor in early December of 2022 (thank you for doing this, Jo).
I thought to myself that I had no business being in this position, as I had not much prior experience in journalism. I mean, my major is Agricultural Business after all. Sure, I’m an avid lover of sports but I didn’t think that qualified me for the position. Nevertheless, I sent an email to Ms. Tomi who was naturally warm, welcoming and enthusiastic toward my passion for the job. She encouraged me to come to a meeting, and I’ve immersed myself wholly ever since. Ms. Tomi never doubted me.
After a few months in the Sports Editor position, I was able to become the Operations Manager under Sarah Cornwell’s guidance and the now executive editor, Mekenzie Coleman. I am grateful to have gotten to work with both of these brilliant and talented minds. This position has been nothing short of wonderful, and I feel blessed to have it. I have learned so much invaluable information from my short tenure at The Pacer. I know that wherever my career takes me in the near future, the skills that I have gained the past two years will help me tremendously.
I want to say a special thank you to the previous executive editor when I was hired, Kaylee Michon, for taking a chance on me and allowing me the opportunity to work on the team. Thank you for extending patience as I grew within The Pacer. The same is also to be said for Ms. Tomi. I had not a clue what I was doing at first, so thank you for letting me figure out some of my talents and showcasing them.
Of course, I have to dedicate a section to Ms. Tomi McCutchen. This woman is a superstar, a jack of all trades. To know her is to love her. She has taught me most of what I know about journalism and editing simply because I didn’t have any of those classes in college. Thank you, Ms. Tomi, for everything that you have done and continue to do for me. I am indebted to you. You are a true inspiration and I am going to miss seeing your smiling face around campus.
Lastly, I want to thank all of the current staff for such a wonderful last semester! You all have worked so hard, and I commend you for that. Keep being great and shine bright.
I feel like it wouldn’t be my own true farewell without putting some type of Taylor Swift lyric/song in here, whether it be cryptic or in plain sight. So:
“There were pages turned with the bridges burned
Everything you lose is a step you take
So make the friendship bracelets, take the moment and taste it
You’ve got no reason to be afraid
You’re on your own, kid
Yeah, you can face this
You’re on your own, kid
You always have been.”
For my ending, I want to leave you with a quote that has stuck with me in my head through trials and tribulations since my sophomore year of high school: “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” – Theodore Roosevelt.
It reminds me to live in the moment; I don’t always have to be looking for the better option. I hope it helps you, reader, to remember to cherish the things around you because after all, that’s what really matters in life.
The scary news is, you’re on your own now. But the cool news is, you’re on your own now.
