My first experience at The Daily Orange was as a freshman sports writer, and I was terrified. I wrote an awful story about alpaca yoga, which will haunt me forever, but somehow, I was still allowed to come back (just not to sports).

I think part of the reason writing this duck has been so difficult is that I want to pretend my time at The D.O. didn’t impact me as much as it did. I like to think I know how to do everything, and I want to pretend that I was always a good writer and I always knew what I was doing, which, as anyone who read that alpaca story knows, I obviously did not.

Over the past two years, I’ve realised just how much the people here have impacted me, teaching me not only how to be a better writer, but a better person. I’m not sure where I’ll end up — as a journalist, a lawyer or maybe something else — but I will take everything I’ve learned with me wherever I go, and I have a long list of people to thank for that. Roll the credits.

Delia: When I look back on my time here, I think about how I ran off to Barcelona for the spring semester, and how you actually convinced me to come back and work my senior year. (I was always coming back). We started as assistants together and I wouldn’t have wanted to go on this journey with anyone else. Because of you, these two semesters have been both fun and extremely impactful. You were an incredible news editor, which I knew you would be, and I’m so excited to see what you do from here. Although I’m sad I haven’t beaten you in Mac points … yet. Have an amazing time in Florece. Alla prossima!

Kendall: I’d heard nothing but wonderful things about you since before this semester, and working with you confirmed all of them. You make everything seem effortless, and I admire your patience and kindness. I’ve learned so much from you, and I’m grateful for it.

Rose: I can’t believe I interviewed for a culture assistant; that feels like forever ago. Even when we weren’t directly working together, I knew I could come to you with pitches or advice. You’ve been my rock inside and outside the house — thanks for letting me rant about editing class.

Shivika: Since I first met you, I knew we would click instantly. Even though we barely worked the same hours, I feel like we’re always on the same page. My law school twin, you’re going to kill it in D.C. and with everything else you do. You’re SO talented. I can’t wait for your 21st birthday next year.

Madeline: All I can think of for an anecdote is wicked witch, but we’ve been through so much together, I could probably name hundreds if I had a few hours. I’ll miss your jokes and hot takes a lot, so please stay in touch.

Griffin: The mayoral campaign was a fun experience! Thanks for teaching me the ways of political reporting. You’re incredibly skilled at digital and social media work and so dedicated to The D.O., I don’t know how you do it all. Chickens for everyone!

Julia: My Barcelona mija. I wish you were in the house more often so I could keep coming to you for grammar advice and crazy AP style questions. I owe you a lot for teaching me the basics because I would have been lost without your guidance.

Duncan: Thank you for bringing me my keys that one time, or maybe multiple times. I wish I had the opportunity to work with you during your time as news editor, but even from across the pond, I could tell you made it look easy. Hope you enjoyed your time in Santiago, so glad you’re back!

Ally: I was so excited to see you on the news staff this year, and I’m glad we had so many things to talk about during slow nights, even if you were a Dylan Efron stan. Can’t wait to see all the London pics (don’t be upset if I have to block you when you go to Barça).

Sydney: You brought so many jokes to the newsroom, and I’m going to miss your humor. Despite stressful nights, you always knew how to stay positive while still cramming in a late-night write-up. Good thing you’re going abroad, so your car can’t get towed again!

Chloe: Since meeting you last year, I knew you were a great writer, and I’m so glad you stuck with The D.O. From Diet Coke to Jeffery Star, you always know how to make us laugh. Your commitment to The D.O. is so impressive, and I enjoyed all your stories.

Brenne: You’re going to do a fabulous job as news editor. I’m so excited to visit you and the rest of the amazing staff. The reporting you do is unmatched, and I’m always impressed by your in-depth knowledge of so many niche topics.

Henry: Missed you in the newsroom this year, but thanks for talking ball with me anyway. Your dedication is really inspiring, and you’ve become such an amazing journalist. I know you’re going to do great things.

James: You have such a strong presence in the house and always make sure everyone feels appreciated. I was so happy to see you fill the role of DME.

Stephanie: Thank you for all your support. As someone who wasn’t totally confident in themselves my first semester, you inspired me, and I am so lucky to have had the opportunity to learn from you. The Barcelona recs came in handy, especially Blackbird Coffee.

Family and friends: It’s bittersweet, but you don’t have to answer my 3 a.m. phone calls as I walk home from the house anymore. Thank you for your advice and support (and for helping me source stories). Love you all.

Published on December 12, 2025 at 1:38 pm
Contact Kate: kjacks19@syr.edu