Four years ago, I started my freshman year at the university. I was so excited to become a Lion and share what my mom now knows as her alma mater. My journey to this moment has been amazing. 

Just three short years ago, I applied for a job at the student newspaper. That was what I wanted. I wanted a j-o-b, but what I found was not just a job but also a home. If you would have told me three years ago that I would one day be the Editor in Chief of The Lion’s Roar, I probably would have laughed and said, “Yeah, right.” Now, I know that this was supposed to happen. I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. There was a reason I took the position as Editor in Chief. Okay, there was more than one reason. There are actually numerous reasons. I took this job because I thought I could be good at it. I thought I had something to teach the staff reporters. I wanted to use my knowledge to help the staffers. 

Another reason I wanted to take this job was because of the people I have met. I can honestly say I have met some of my best friends through this job. We all bring something different to the newsroom, and we are like a big family. Not only have I gained a second family and best friends, I have gained even more knowledge from what they have taught me. 

This job isn’t easy. I will probably be the first person to tell you that. It was a challenge. I would not have made it through this semester without the help of the amazing staff. I want to thank them for being there on Thursdays, Fridays and those dreaded Mondays where we work tirelessly to get the paper sent off to the printer. I also would not have thought I could do this job without the two people who hired me in the first place. I was worried that I couldn’t do it. I always told both of my bosses that it was going to be too much with the other two jobs I had. They put their faith in me, and I hope I have exceeded their expectations. If it wasn’t for them, I don’t think I would have been able to do it at all. 

I know my mom and dad had their doubts as well, but I think I have proven that I could handle my time and do my jobs and school work to the best of my ability. I hope I have made them proud. 

The newspaper has been a part of my life for three years, and I have decided my time with the paper has come to an end. Although it is hard to say goodbye, I think this is what’s best for me moving forward. I am getting into my final year at Southeastern, and I have to start looking for an internship for my final semester. I am going to put my focus on that and also on my second year working for the New Orleans Saints. It was a difficult decision because I am literally at the newspaper office every day. 

I worked hard to become Copy Editor and just two months later was offered the Editor in Chief position. This job will forever have a place in my heart, and I hope that we have succeeded in giving the Southeastern community all the up-to-date news it needs to know or wanted to see. This job has given me so much knowledge, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for me with all the knowledge I have retained. This has been one of my greatest adventures, and I can’t wait for my next one.