Trying to sum up two semesters, countless b reads, endless copy edits and some of my favorite memories in a thousand words is harder than I ever expected.

What makes it even stranger is knowing I almost never ended up at The D.O. When I didn’t hear back after reaching out to contribute, I figured it wasn’t meant to be. But, thanks to my friend Cole Ross, who told me, “Oh News is really busy, they probably just missed it. You should apply anyway!”

We were probably (definitely) a little bit delusional with that logic, but looking back now, I’m forever grateful I listened.

Saying goodbye to The D.O. is both surreal and bittersweet. I’m leaving a place filled with people who supported me, helped me grow and gave me the confidence to take on bigger challenges. But, if leaving means new people get to experience the house how I did, then it’s worth it.

Before I get even sappier, (which I know some of you have already teased me for), I want to end with a few things I wish I knew at the start:

Take advantage of this opportunity you’ve been given – it’s a special one. Walk away proud of the work you put out. Trust the people around you to have your back, because you will inevitably need them, and they’ll be there for you. And most importantly, remember to have fun! I definitely did.

Kendall: Thank you for everything this semester. You’re an amazing boss and such a kind person. I appreciate how every time we do a final read together; it feels so collaborative. Thank you for your encouragement and for creating an amazing environment. Your constant support, especially with Sharon Owens, meant so much to me.

Rose: I’m so glad we worked together. You’re a great boss and such an easy person to talk to. Thanks for always supporting me through my insane schedule. I hope every time you look at La Blu Blu, you’re reminded of me.

Delia: If someone told me that the girl I randomly met on the first day of classes freshman year would be my “boss,” I probably wouldn’t believe them. But two years later, here we are. You’re one of my closest friends and I couldn’t have done The D.O. without you. Thanks for goofing off with me every time we work together. I’m sure everyone is sick of hearing us laugh from every room in the house. Wherever your future at The D.O. takes you, it’ll be amazing and I can’t wait to see it. Miss you already!

Duncan: My OG News Ed. Thank you for taking a chance on me, especially without any bylines. I appreciate you pushing me out of my comfort zone. You were such a patient leader and I hope you enjoyed Chile!

Madeline: From having 3 classes together before we met to the Bills, I’m so glad our ‘invisible string’ led us to The D.O. From what I remember, we bonded immediately. I know whenever we work together, I will be ganged up on by you and Delia, and I’ll be laughing. I’m so grateful that we’re such good friends outside the house too. You also somehow manage to finish work in a timely manner even when I distract you, which is insane. Can’t wait for your million London voice memos!

Henry: I’m so glad we were assistants together before you ditched us for sports. You’re such a goofball and I can always count on you to make me laugh. Thanks for always letting us bully you and for Hailee Stuffeld. Can’t wait for another Meal of Misfortune, your crazy NYC stories and for your visit!

Chloe: I’m so glad you stuck around for another semester. Every time we work together, I know you will say something crazy, which always makes me laugh. I love hanging out with you and whipping around in Priscilla. Watching you push yourself to become a stronger writer and editor is amazing. Remember to have faith in yourself, trust the process and have fun. You got this. Can’t wait to hear about it. Don’t miss me too much!

Kate: Thank you for always agreeing to my insane schedule, you’re the best. You’re such a fun person to be around. I absolutely love getting to spend time with you. I’m just sad I didn’t get to work with you more. Going to miss you so much but good luck on the job search, I’m rooting for you!

Sydney: You’re such a fun presence in the newsroom. Working with you is always so lovely. Please make vlogs of your abroad experience because I love your commentary! Can’t wait to see where you go & for more debriefs.

Brenne: First, good luck as News Ed! I can’t wait to see your ideas for the section because you’re such a dedicated and focused writer. Also, thank you for your copy guides, they were amazing.

Ally: I’m so glad you joined us during the summer. News wouldn’t have been the same without you. You’re an awesome writer and so fun to work with. Have so much fun in London!

Sophia: I’m so glad we met, even though I can’t remember when. I love seeing what you cook up, whether it be your semester dump Instagram photo collages or soup, because I know it’ll be amazing. I already know I’ll be at your apartment all the time next year, so I’ll see you soon!

Griffin: Thanks for responding to my random Slack DM about D.C. and for sharing my appreciation for copy and AP Style! I definitely won’t be surprised if I see you as a D.C. bigwig someday.

James: Thanks for always supporting us, James! I appreciate your willingness to work with my nitpicky copy nature and for your daily encouragement. I hope you enjoy your semester off!

Arabella: I’m sad we’re missing each other next semester, but News is so lucky to have you back. I’m so glad we got to work together. Can’t wait to see your infectious spirit spread to a new era of the section.

Stephanie: Thank you for being such a fierce, kind and supportive leader. Your dedication to the paper was insane and I learned so much from you. Can’t wait to catch up with you in D.C.!

Eliana: Culture is so lucky to have you lead them. You’re such a joyful, kind and wonderful person. I loved having class and celebrating our birthdays together. I better see you in D.C. soon!

Mia: My birthday twin! Thank you for always letting me chat with (bother) you when I needed a break from a read. Enjoy your time off, good luck on the job search!

Mama, Papa & Saishaa: I am so lucky to have a wonderful, caring support system surrounding me. I wouldn’t be able to do any of this without you guys. I promise I’ll be able to talk between 5-10 p.m. on Sunday – Wednesdays more frequently now. I love you all.

To everyone I’ve crossed paths with here, you’ve all shaped my college experience in ways I can’t put into words. I’m sure I’ll be back before I know it. :))

Published on December 12, 2025 at 1:49 pm
Contact Shivika: sgupta38@syr.edu