Monday, October 15, 1979. Hatchett is written in The Daily Texan 19 times. Wednesday, May 5, 1982 brings the first Hatchett by-line. If you told me 6 semesters ago, I would have 2 by-lines, a couple pictures, a podcast episode and video for the Texan, I would have rolled my eyes. 

Discovering my family’s history with the Texan, encouraged me to produce content representative of what students – especially Black students – experienced while at UT. I encourage everyone to do the same. 

My second semester here I joined one zoom meeting that changed my life completely. These are the people responsible: 

First and foremost, I want to thank God and the relentless love and blessings He has poured into my life. I am all things with Him and nothing without. 

To Sanika, I would do anything to talk to you again for the first time in Kerby for hours. I am so proud of you and I miss you. To Myah, you set the standard of excellence, humility, grace and friendship I’ve only hoped I’ve kept up since you left. To know you both is an honor.  

Carolynn, you brought humor to this depressing basement and I know we have a lifetime of laughter left ahead of us. To have worked alongside you and become your friend is to feel your warmth, love and selflessness with every switch into your British accent. 

Hannah, my fellow Chloe Bailey fan, I miss you so much. Please stop gatekeeping Mittens! Abhirupa, wow you left big shoes to fill. I swear I see your ghost around here. Jenny, I could always count on you to share a smile. 

To Nathan and Matthew, y’all know who the real ping pong champ is. To the Daily Flexin dodgeball team, I would take another dodgeball to the face for each and every one of you. Make sure my replacement will live up to that. 

Sruti, my first roommate and co-director, thank you for putting up with me, my alarms and reminding me everyday what it looks like to be a better person than you were yesterday. 

Sage, you are always filled with such effervescence and are the definition of sultry.  Breigh and Sasha, y’all instantly became my favorites after entering in the SNKRs draw for my “ugly” shoes. One day you will understand or at least work with the type of directors who would put their credit card on the line to make you happy. 

Hairuo, Misbah, Mathieu, Jeremiah–my real diamonds– thank you for allowing me to be your Director. There isn’t a better team I could have asked for. 

Fiza and Megan, thank you for dragging me back for a final fall semester. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of your leadership team. Jaws earned a new friend.

And finally, Reya. To know you is to know the fiercest love for this paper. You have shown up for me in ways I can’t even describe and I want you to know you deserve every ounce of praise in my body. I can’t even begin to put it all here without crying. You are the friend, editor and department head I’ve had the privilege of serving. Thank you. 

The Texan is where I’ve made some of my deepest friend connections.  I swear by that.