Letter from the Mint editor: Writing the perfect column

Letters from the editor made simple with fun formulas

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BENJAMIN MICHAELIS | THE DAILY EVERGREEN

Mint editor Emma Ledbetter examines a plant during an interview in Johnson Hall while contemplating her STEM plot to overthrow The Daily Evergreen.

EMMA LEDBETTER, Evergreen news editor

Hello again, Mint reader. I appreciate you taking the time to flip (or scroll, for you tech-savvy folks) to our section.

If I’m being honest, I’m not entirely sure how to write a letter from the editor. It was a part of the job I conveniently forgot about until after I was hired, and, well, now we’re here.

From the research I’ve done about these types of columns, I’ve found that they should be a pleasant mix of humor, advice and genuine sentiment. As a formula-loving kind of gal, I will gladly produce something that precisely follows this recipe (provided it results in the correct answer, or, in this case, a laugh or two).

 

  1. Humor

 

What’s the difference between an old bus stop and a lobster with breast implants? One is a crusty bus station and the other is a busty crustacean. If you didn’t laugh, try reading it out loud to yourself. If you still didn’t laugh, you should consider getting your sense of humor checked by a doctor. That joke is clearly comedy gold.

 

  1. Advice

 

Don’t believe that syllabus week is easy. We are only one week into spring semester and I am currently drowning in reading assignments, work and the occasional social obligation. Yes, I do crawl out of my hole every now and then to see friends.

More advice: Don’t be a STEM major unless you really think you can handle chemistry and physics at the same time. However, if you can handle chemistry and physics at the same time, shoot me an email. I would love to hear how you’re managing it.

Also, don’t tell my editors, but we have a secret STEM plot to overthrow The Daily Evergreen. We would love to have you aid us in our mission.

 

  1. Genuine sentiment

 

If you couldn’t tell by now, genuine sentiment is not exactly my strong suit. I really excel with numbers and facts, not with feelings. However, I will give it my best shot.

I’m still trying to figure out if I should switch my major to something less science-y (specifically journalism or communication), and that’s okay. My dad loves to point out that 18-year-olds aren’t supposed to know what they’re going to do for the rest of their lives.

In my quest to find my ideal major, I’ve mentioned my dilemma in a few columns. In response, I’ve received emails from faculty and staff with advice and reassurance.

People have also given me books, which I so graciously demanded in my last letter from the editor.

I knew when I chose to attend WSU this was a thoughtful and caring community, but this last week has proven it to me once again. Cougs help Cougs, even if the only help they need is new reading material.

I hope, in exchange for all your kindness, I can help you stay caught up on all the cultural events and arts happenings that WSU, Pullman and the Palouse have to offer.

As always, feel free to email me at [email protected] with questions, suggestions or life advice. I will gladly respond to your email whether or not you supply me with a novel.