Opinion Editor says goodbye to collegiate years

As I write this column, I am sitting at my computer in the newsroom vigorously typing the millions of words running through my mind for the very last time. 

I have been writing for the newspaper for two years now, and the skills and knowledge I have gained since I started this endeavor are invaluable.  

I will always remember my very first assignment, a preview of the play "Iphigenia" to be performed at the University Playhouse.  I had no clue what I was doing.  I conducted my interviews without any problem at all and wrote my story with ease.  I thought I had it all figured out.  And then I got my story back and it looked like it had been slaughtered...twice.

At first glance, I wanted to cry.  I was embarrassed that I had created something so awful.  But, then I realized that this was a chance to grow, a learning experience that would teach me everything I needed to know to write an appropriate news story.  

You see, sitting in a classroom and cramming for tests is just fine, but it won't really get you far in journalism.  One must go out and figure it out by messing up and starting over until he/she is familiar with the process.  This is what The East Texan has given me.  

Without the opportunity to work for this publication, I would not know even half of the things I know about not only reporting, but newspaper production in general.  And, without the university's help with providing opportunites such as this, I feel I would be no where near prepared to enter the journalism work force.  

Between my education through the Honors College, the leadership skills I have gained in Chi Omega and the wide-ranged professional skill set I have developed through my various jobs at A&M-Commerce, I am forever indebted to this institution.  

The realm of educational opportunities, both in and out of the classroom, at Texas A&M University-Commere is unlike that of any of its competitors, and I will always be proud to say that this is my alma mater.  For three years I have looked forward to graduation, to "getting out of here," much like most of you.  But, now it is real, and I will be sad to say goodbye to Texas A&M University-Commerce.