You’d think being a social media editor means I’m obsessed with posting, gaining likes and followers, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Joining the Texan was actually the first time I ever wrote a tweet (or X post … whatever we call it now). As much as I’d love to say I joined out of passion for social media, that’s not the case. I joined for resume experience. Not the most heartfelt reason, I know, but it ended up being one of the best choices I’ve made in college.
I found the Texan during a confusing time, right after switching from computer science to communications. I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life anymore. My resume was full of coding experiences and tech clubs that suddenly felt irrelevant. I was no longer a freshman, and I felt like I was starting from scratch. That’s when my amazing roommate Shivani, already part of the Texan’s social team, began chatting with me about scheduling posts and managing DT accounts. She made me think, “Hey, this could be good for my resume.” So I gave it a shot. Thanks, all this wouldn’t be possible without you.
At first, I did what was expected and nothing more. But soon I realized I had a real knack for this. I loved going up to random students, asking them to be in our Instagram Reels and hearing firsthand what they thought about campus life. Newton started assigning me News stories regularly, and I began to believe I could make P-staff. As he pushed our department to grow, I started to understand why people were so passionate about the Texan. I’m grateful he saw my potential and brought me on as associate editor, then passed social editor to me. Working with him and the hilarious Sarai became one of the highlights of my time here. I only wish I had applied sooner to work with her longer. As she gushed about being a “social media apologist” protecting our staffers, I was amazed at the woman she is. Sarai, thank you for those late-night Zoom calls and texts when I was still figuring things out. And Newton, thank you for guiding me as I stepped into this editor role and for always being here for me.
I also want to thank Vale and Avery for believing in me. Your trust and support have meant everything. Vale, we started together and now we finish together. I’m so proud of us. Avery, you’re going to be an amazing editor, don’t worry. And Samantha, I’m sorry for all the times I randomly texted you for a graphic and then forgot to check Figma.
Overall, this organization has allowed me to meet so many dedicated, hardworking people from various departments. Shout-out to my fellow editor baddie Clara for sharing those editor experiences with me and realizing just how much effort every department puts in. The Texan wouldn’t be the same without everyone involved, and I hope I’ve added to that in some way.
I came to realize the true importance of the social department. We do more than just hit post on two-sentence captions; we’re on the frontlines of the news in a digital age. I hear students in class mention how they stay informed thanks to following the Texan on social media. In a time when so much feels uncertain and overwhelming, it’s one thing I know I can do to help, and I take pride in that.
Thank you to the Texan for being there for me, even when I didn’t know I needed you.
