Three years ago, someone asked me if I ever thought of being summer editor of The BG News.
I was 19. I was shy and I didn’t think I was ready for that.
And then I did it and you could say that my life changed.
It wasn’t just that summer that changed my life, but the very suggestion that I be the editor and all the work before and after that and the people at The BG News all along.
In my four years working at the paper, I have seen many editors and staff members come and go— and I’ve always been the one who comes back year after year.
Next year, as students filter into 210 West Hall, I won’t be among them.
As I panic about not coming back to this place that means more to me than I could ever put into words, I also try to realize how lucky I am to have ever walked through the door in the first place.
The first time I walked in was in February 2010. Upon coming in and seeing the ratty old couch, the green walls and the volumes of old newspaper archives, I cried.
I was so excited, happy, and at home.
Ever since that day before I even started at The BG News, 210 West Hall has been my home.
I’ve come into the newsroom every day for the past four years. I’d sit down, fire up a computer and chat with staff members who also happen to be the best friends I’ve ever had.
This experience has changed me forever. To say that I’ve grown is an understatement. To say that I’m a different person, a better person is even more of an understatement.
When I walked in the door that February day, I was quiet, shy and self-conscious.
On Friday, when I walk out the door, I will leave self-confident, outspoken and happier than I’ve ever been in my life.
There are often times when people don’t like newspapers, reporters or the content, but to them I say that I’ve never been more proud of anything in my life.
It may not seem like much to you, but this year, the staff has worked harder than I’ve ever seen them work in four years.
They’ve pushed others and been pushed themselves.
And I’m more proud of them than I ever could be.
Though you just see the final copy, I see the work that goes into that paper.
When I pick up the paper, I remember the laughter, the jokes, the hard work, the thought and sweat that went into making it.
I hope you’ll see that now too.
This experience wasn’t one of the best I’ve ever had because of me- it was because of all the people involved in The BG News.
This year, it was because of Alex Alusheff, Eric Lagatta, Abby Welsh, Lindsay Rodier, Geoff Burns, Steven Echard and so many more.
Next year, for everyone else on staff, it will be because of Cameron Teague Robinson.
To Cam: You’ll do great as Editor-in-Chief next year.
I know this because I see your passion for the work, your humor and your strength. You have the ability to be a great leader and I already see you doing it.
To everyone coming back next year: cherish next year, and don’t ever forget how these people and these green walls changed you.
Respond to Danae at
