As an incoming freshman, I came to Otterbein as a shy, home-schooled girl who was not entirely sure what she wanted to do with her life other than photography.
I have come to realize that nothing can quite prepare you for what you will endure in your four years as an undergrad: late-night chats with your mom, endless hours in your room cranking out 10-page papers the night before they are due while you teach yourself to consume unhealthful amounts of caffeine just to stay awake, and of course college would not be complete without multiple late-night munchies trips to Taco Bell.
This, ladies and gentlemen, is just the tip of the iceberg, and I owe a great thanks to those I hold close to my heart.
As a freshman, I came to Otterbein as a photojournalism major. After deciding I didn’t want to write my whole life (hint hint: I am the photo editor), I decided to explore TV and radio production.
With the help of WOCC TV3 and WOBN 97.5, some of my fondest memories have taken place in these organizations, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to be a part of them.
I found myself thriving in both of these organizations, but in my heart I knew something was missing. I wanted more. I decided I wanted to explore the “dark side” (the art side) of the Art & Communication Building.
Yes, I will admit it was scary to leave my safe little haven on the communication side, but I was able to find who I truly was as a creative person through communication design, where I combined all the elements of art that I had learned into one medium. I had finally found what I wanted to do with my life, and I was excited about it.
That being said, I have always had a passion for photography. I can remember using my mom’s old film camera, taking the film to be developed and imagining what the pictures would be like once they were printed.
I am able to capture a single moment in time, and that to me is precious. I will confess being the photo editor was not an easy job, but I have gained a greater understanding and sense of humbleness as my journey comes to a close and my career begins.
I would not trade the experience I have had working at the T&C for all the tea in China, and it all started in Room 155.
Dr. Hillary Warren, thank you for keeping me sane at times when I felt Photoshop had owned me. God bless you!
Mike Wagner, I have fed off your feistiness and will to push the envelope in everything we publish as a paper throughout the past year. It has been a true pleasure to work with you and crack jokes at dinner.
Michael Cirelli, congratulations, my friend. Mission accomplished. All our blood, sweat and tears paid off despite the endless question marks I sent you every week.
Kristen Davis, I proudly pass the baton to you, my dear. You are going to rock as the incoming photo editor.
Lindsey Hobbs, you have served as a friend, a mentor and a tremendous model of success for young women to follow. Kudos to you, girlfriend. I will forever drink Red Bull in your honor.
Chelsea, thank you for humoring me constantly. You make the lab a better place to be during the late hours of the night, and I think we can all say with great confidence that we owe you a huge thank you for that alone.
Ally, you are always on top of your game, the “get-it-done” kind of girl. You will be greatly missed. The Windy City doesn’t know what’s going to hit it once you come to town.
Laina and Dennison, you challenged my artistic abilities and constantly pushed the envelope with all your brilliant page layouts. It’s been fun.
Katie and Josh, you both crept up on all of us with your willingness to persevere regardless of what kind of craziness arose. I have no doubt in my mind that you will both be exceptional section editors.
Anna, darling, I can’t thank you enough for laughing with me at things no one else found the slightest bit humorous. I will miss you.
Danielle, thank you for always keeping our bellies full of delicious food. Family dinner would not have been possible without you. We are all eternally grateful for Yabo’s Tacos.
Lindsay Paulsen, I have a huge smile on my face as I say that you are the new leader of a small family that possesses true skill. I look forward to reading your paper.
Incoming staff, you have been welcomed into a home away from home. Cherish every moment.
