At 16, I stepped into The Daily Texan Basement for the first time. I attended a journalism conference at UT with my high school newspaper and instantly became captivated by a panel of Texan staffers sharing their experiences at the paper. As the session wrapped up, the adviser, Peter, led us down to the basement newsroom. Surrounded by seasoned student journalists in their element, I was completely in awe. Until the conference, all the college applications saved on my computer were for marine biology. Eight months later, I committed to UT for journalism.
I started my journey at this newspaper as a freshman Life&Arts general reporter. From sitting in the press tent at Austin City Limits, covered in dust and dirt, to meeting one of my favorite comedians, Morgan Jay, at a South by Southwest film premiere, this department has given me a plethora of lasting memories. However, it was the “Lartists” that made these memories truly worthwhile.
To my LARTS partner-in-crime, Flora, there’s not an inch count big enough for me to express my love and gratitude for you. You are such a light, with an infectiously warm presence that surrounds everyone you meet. Thank you for guiding me through my first-ever concert (and press experience) at ACL. I wouldn’t have wanted to walk miles at 1 a.m. — exhausted and delirious — with anyone else. I’ll carry our time spent ranting in the corner, beneath the hanging paper bats, for a lifetime.
Riddhi, you have such a kind and genuine soul. I have loved watching you grow, not only as a writer, but as a person. Analise, you inspire me through your drive and passion for writing. I’ve loved getting to know you and will miss hearing the laughter at pitch meetings, often sparked by your jokes. I can’t wait to see all the wonderful things you both do in the future. I know this department is in good hands.
To my first LARTS editor, Mimi, thank you for believing in me. After sitting through my interview and watching you make 60 edits on my tryout story, I was sure you were going to reject me. You played such a pivotal role in my growth as a writer, and I am endlessly grateful to you.
Amelia and Minza, I learned so much from you as my editors. You both inspire me so much, and I’m always amazed when I do my occasional Instagram stalking and see all of the wonderful things you are both doing. I’m honored to have worked as your desk editor.
To all of my LARTS reporters, it has been a privilege to watch you grow. I appreciate your determination and hard work throughout the semester. My senior reporters, Brynn, Charlotte, Angelina and Tyler, your work and dedication never went unnoticed. You all will do so many great things, at the Texan and beyond. I hope to one day work alongside all of you again.
Five semesters later, The Daily Texan, thank you for pushing me to apply to this college. It’s an honor to now be among the many reporters who have taken up space in the LARTS corner. My time here will forever be a significant part of my college experience. I love this newspaper, I love these people, and, as much as I hate to admit, I will always love that small windowless Basement.
