I can remember staring at my loading zoom screen, waiting for my interview at The Evergreen like it was yesterday. I was so nervous. I practiced what to say over and over in my mind. I wanted the editors to know how passionate I was about writing and how ready I was to take that passion to the next level. 

Growing up, I was constantly writing poems plays, and short stories whenever I could, and maybe even too much. I would sit in my math class scribbling away at my notebook, thinking up the next adventure my fictional characters would embark on. 

Attending WSU was always at the forefront of my mind. I loved the tight-knit community, the small-town atmosphere and how genuinely open and kind the Cougars were. I began my college career in 2019 as a public relations major, but after taking communications 300 I knew I belonged in journalism and I soon added Multimedia Journalism as my double major. 

When I got hired on to The Evergreen I was elated. I gained so much knowledge and proficiency in writing for print, ranging from breaking news to features, and every little story in between. The Evergreen gave me confidence and a sense of professionalism I never knew I could have. Being able to tell the stories of those around me is something truly special, and words cannot describe how grateful I am to have been able to do that. 

I can say with utmost confidence that the Evergreen has been the reason I have been able to achieve so many amazing things throughout my college career — my summer internship with Northwest Travel and Life Magazine, my conversations with former NBA legends, and my eye for the truth in the news have all stemmed from this organization. 

As I leave WSU this month, I am taking all of the skills and knowledge I have gained through being a journalist, and my love for journalism will continue to grow for years to come. Someday, I hope you will all be opening my fiction novel and will remember my roots here. 

To my editors, thank you for having patience with my sporadic writing schedule, always frantic, and always getting my stories in minutes before the deadline. To my friends, and sorority sisters, thank you for making me into the woman I am today, your friendship and love is truly unmatched, and my heart breaks to leave the place we have called home for the last four years. To my parents, thank you for sacrificing so much for me, thank you for believing in me and always pushing me to go above and beyond, you have my back always. 

Finally, to my first love, writing. We have been through so much together, so many ups and downs, but we have grown so much, and I will carry a place in my heart for you no matter where I go or where I end up. Sometimes I think about how far we’ve come, from writing poems in second grade to being published over 25 times, look at us go, we did it!

I love WSU and I love the Evergreen. This is not goodbye. Go Cougs forever.