Part of something bigger

By Dustin Brennan

Fall 2015 Evergreen Editor-in-Chief

Looking back with the perspective I’ve gained in my four years at WSU, I can honestly say my college experience would not have been nearly as fulfilling or enjoyable without Student Media or The Daily Evergreen.

That’s not to say my time as a writer, managing editor and editor-in-chief of our award-winning student newspaper wasn’t also filled with anxiety, stress, heartbreak, and sleep deprivation, but the long nights and constant workload were always worth it. Even as the leader of the department’s flagship product, The Daily Evergreen, I still always felt as if I was part of something bigger than myself – a nationally-recognized, century’s-old WSU tradition.

I leave my college life as an award-winning journalist with a resume as prestigious as any other young journalist beginning their professional career. Because of this, I secured a job with the Tri-City Herald back in April, and I will start reporting on Mid-Columbia Athletics shortly after I graduate. My dream of becoming a professional sportswriter is now a reality, and I credit nearly all of my successes to opportunities afforded to me by previous leaders and advisers of Student Media.

I wouldn’t trade my time at WSU for anything in the world, and without question my experience would have been drastically different – likely for the worse – had I not been involved in Student Media. I firmly believe all WSU students should habitually read the Evergreen (and buy a yearbook!), become informed about their community, and interact with the paper on social media or by other methods to tailor the coverage to their interests and concerns.

The Evergreen is the student voice of WSU, and without input from you, the student, it is impossible for the editorial staff to adhere to that vision.

As you know, there’s only one way to end a personal essay around these parts, so it’s with a proud voice but a heavy heart that I wish you one final go Cougs!