I’m used to writing 280 characters max so bear with me as I sappily write about my time with the paper.

I joined The Daily Texan the fall semester of my junior year. I thought I’d stay for one semester, two tops. Well, five semesters, three departments and a couple leadership roles later here we are.

When I think of the Texan, I don’t think of the work I produced. I’m proud of what I’ve done, but the people and experiences made my time worthwhile. 

I think of running in the rain to get food, 200 people crammed into an apartment, ping-pong tournaments, ‘highs and lows,’ filming at 5 a.m., pulling all nighters to finish class assignments and drinking too much boba.

I also think of the impact we’ve made as an organization. Working in social media means reading messages from readers. They’re not always good, but when they are, they’re really good. Reading about a story positively affecting someone reminded me what it meant to be a journalist.

Now, of course, is the time to deliver shout-outs to the people who helped
me grow.

Alex: My 915 sister from another mister, my first editor, my friend for life. You’re so patient, so caring and so dedicated to everything that you do. If it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I can’t wait to see what you do in the future.

Ryan and Peter: You both put up with me this semester. Ryan, thanks for trusting me with the Twittersphere. I always felt like the DT Twitter was my burner account. Peter, thanks for letting me write our newsletter the way I wanted, even though I’d write it at 4 a.m.

Sarah and Peyton: My favorite duo right after El and Taquito. Thank you for taking a chance on me. You both inspire me to not only be a better storyteller, but a better person. I loved being video’s social media intern. New York is lucky to have you both in the fall.

All my other friends in the basement: Thanks for keeping me sane. I’ve never been around so many talented people that make my stomach ache with laughter. I wish I could name everyone, but you’ll know who you are because we follow each other on Instagram.

Last but not least, mom and dad: Thank you for being so supportive when I told you I wanted to move nine hours away to pursue journalism. Thank you for supporting all of my endeavors and being my rock. I love you both tremendously.

I’ll always cherish my time at the paper. I don’t know what I’ll do now — maybe take a social media hiatus. I’m just happy I had the opportunity to be apart of the legacy that is The
Daily Texan.

Catch y’all on the flip side, I’m officially logging off.