From the day I was admitted to UT, I knew I wanted to work at the Texan. Like all the annoying high school yearbook kids, I made my way to the basement with confidence a bit too high and a truckload of freshman naïveté. 

Quickly, the copy department became home. There’s something really special about late nights in that poorly lit, cricket-infested basement. I never thought a little desk all the way in the back of the office would lead me to so many amazing people, and I never thought I would lead a department, but I would never trade it for the world.

The Texan is not without its faults. There is still so much to be done to make this a safe, inclusive environment for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ staff. Promises of change have been made but not many have been met. Accountability is essential, and I will continue to support and encourage progressive decisions so our newsroom no longer pushes talented individuals away. New leaders have a lot of work to do. 

This isolated semester would not have been successful without the team of wonderful women by my side. Lawson, thank you for putting up with my scattered brain since our Monday work nights. You keep me sane, or at least as sane as I can be. Irissa, you’ve taught me how to be a better friend to myself and to others. My heart is bigger because of you. Phoebe, thank you for always being there and for your amazing little earrings. Megan, queen of iced mochas, I will forever cherish the cursed Super Tuesday. If you know, you know. 

I would never have lasted in this high-stress environment if it weren’t for my longtime support system. Brittany, thank you for making me feel heard and loved every day. Picnics and coffee dates with you are my favorite. Jason, I never knew anyone more chaotic than me could exist, until I met you. I love you for that. 

I wasn’t sure soulmates were real until I met Kirsten. Thank you for being my workout buddy, therapist, playlist maker, Yellow Tail aficionado, hangover sister and so much more. My life is beautiful because you are in it. By the way, I still haven’t told anyone about Whataburger. 

Sierra — I would not have survived the last three semesters without you. Thank you for always trying new coffee places, introducing me to the best vegan eats in Austin, and for always laughing at my not-so-funny jokes. And for still talking to me after I stepped on Gremlin. Alex, I guess you’re not like other boys. Donnie, I hate to break it to you, but Stevie Wonder really is blind. 

Mom and Dad, thank you for staying up for so many semesters of 1 a.m. “I’m home” texts after working. I will now have a normal bedtime, I promise. To my lovely roommates, thank you for listening to my endless rants and always supporting my hectic schedule. 

Megan, our fearless managing editor, thank you for not firing me. I know I would have. Trinady, I admire your tenacity and work ethic. I’ll see your byline in the big pages someday.

Last but certainly not least: To all the sports writers, thank you for replying to my editing texts and always taking the time to explain the most basic sports concepts. I hope you feel relieved you will never receive another one.