I walked into The Plainsman office at the end of my sophomore year not knowing what to expect.
I wasn't a journalism major and I had never worked on a newspaper before, so I was scared to say the least.
May be I was just naive or I had seen one too many movies about newspapers, but I thought I was walking into a lions den full of people who would fight you tooth and nail for a good story.
While this is true, it wasn't nearly as frightening as I had made it out to be.
Opening the doors of the office, then in the basement of Foy, I was greeted with smiles and friendly faces.
When I interviewed for a position on staff three weeks later, I thought I was just doing something that might lead to a career, little did I know I was joining a family.
To the staff, thanks for all your support this year. It's going to be weird having Tuesday nights free and not seeing your faces every day.
You put your heart and soul into this paper every week. Working here has taught me a lot about dedication.
We made it through some crazy times.
Thanks for the therapy sessions Brittney.
In my two years on staff, but especially this past one, I learned to not take no for an answer and if someone says there's not a story there, there usual is one.
While some people might not agree with some of the statements we've made, we stood up for what we believed in which is the most important thing.
Newbies, don't take this opportunity for granted.
Don't be afraid to ask questions or ask for help. No one has all the answers.
There are going to be times when you get frustrated and want to shove off coming into the office. Do it any way.
There are going to be Friday afternoons when you will think the paper is finished and right as you are about to go out or take a much needed nap, breaking news will happen. Cover it any way. It will make you a better reporter.
Even if you think only one person is going to pick up the paper and read it on Thursday, do it any way.
Of all the organizations I have been involved in and the classes I have taken during my time here at Auburn, my time at The Plainsman has been the most valuable.
Being on staff has taught me more about journalism and how to deal with "the real world" than any text book or lecture ever could so I thank you for that.
I hope at some point The Plainsman staff can say they are proud I was a part of it.
I know I am.
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