Well, we’re finally here. Four years passed just like that. 

If you told the freshman girl that walked into Mrs. Herche’s room after school, exploring what newspaper club had to offer, she could not fathom the fact she is writing her farewell column as editor-in-chief of The Gibbons Globe.

First off, thank you to Mr. Blake. I truly could not have asked for a better teacher and guide throughout this experience. From the very beginning, you created an environment that encouraged growth and creativity. You consistently challenged me to think deeper, write stronger, and lead with intention. I appreciate all the assignments we did, as they helped make my writing stronger, even if the grammar packets weren’t always my favorite haha. Your constant support and belief in me never went unnoticed, and I am so grateful for the impact you’ve had on both my work and who I’ve become. You pushed me to try and become more than a reporter and take leadership, and I am so grateful that I listened. Thank you for believing in me, for giving me the space to grow, and for turning a simple after-school club into something that shaped who I am today.

These past three years in Journalism have completely changed and shaped me as a person. Transitioning from that eight person class into one with 20 students was a shift I never expected, but it’s what pushed me to step up.  

Becoming an editor during that time meant learning how to lead, collaborate, and take responsibility for something bigger than just my own work. It was also when I got involved with our social media, which gave me a whole new way to express myself and share ideas with the Gibbons community. I’ll never forget that first video I did being played at the pep rally. The sheer excitement I had being able to say, “Hey this is my video! I did this!” is something I will never forget. Being able to share funny content, while also giving our reporters the recognition they deserve is something I cherish deeply.

Now, as a senior and editor-in-chief, I can look back and see how every afternoon spent writing on my back porch, every article, and every challenge led me here. This wasn’t a position I just stepped into, it’s something I worked toward, learned from, and grew into over time. And I’m so grateful for everything this journey has given me.

I want to thank everyone in that sophomore class, especially:

Reagan and Noe, thank you for taking the trio under your wing and being someone to look up to. I still go back and look at your work for inspiration when I get stuck, because you’re two of the most talented writers I’ve ever been around. 

Thank you to Blair for setting a standard that was incredibly hard to follow; in the best way possible. Stepping into that role was intimidating, but it pushed me to grow and give it my all. I’m really grateful for the standard you set and the example you left behind.

Emi, Callie, and Maxwell, thank you for shaping the news and sports departments. I have no doubt you’ll take the Globe to even greater heights next year, and I can’t wait to see all that you accomplish. 

And last but certainly not least, thank you to my partner through it all, Miss Charlotte Leach. I still remember registering for classes together freshman year in Dr. Bristow’s theology class, both of us interested in the new journalism course. We took it on side by side and learned so much along the way. From J-Day bus rides, to being seat buddies in every classroom, I’m so grateful I got to experience all of this with you. You’re an incredible writer and an inspiration to so many. Can’t wait to continue our journey together at UNCW! Go Seahawks!!

The Gibbons Globe is so much more than just a publication, it’s a community and a place where people find their voice. It gave me confidence, purpose, and a passion I never expected to discover while joining that club. To anyone just starting out, don’t hold back. Say yes to the story, even if it scares you a little. Share your ideas, even if you’re not sure they’re perfect. And trust that even the awkward interviews or the ones that don’t go as planned, like those with certain faculty, are part of the process. Those moments are what help you grow into the writer you’re meant to become.

As I turn the page to this next chapter, I’ll carry everything this experience has given me. The people, the deadlines, and the moments of pride all made this journey unforgettable. Thank you, Gibbons Globe, for giving me a place to grow and a story I’ll always be proud to tell.