Each year, graduating editors are given 30 final column inches — “30” was historically used to signify the end of a story — to reflect on their time at The Hatchet, published in the final issues of the year.
Walking into the townhouse for an open house, just weeks after moving across the country, I had zero clue that as a senior, I would have made lifelong friends, lived my hardest moments, and worked with the writers I did. If you would have told me that I was a Sports Editor for two volumes, after only becoming a sports reporter because of my brother’s career as a college athlete, I would have giggled. But working under Nuria Diaz and Luke Wienecke, gave me the strength to embrace sports I had no clue about, taking the risk and interviewing athletes and coaches, all of which grew my confidence and emboldened me.
It wasn’t until I grew into my eventual role as editor, that I was duly unprepared for, that I realized that being somewhat clueless would benefit me, allowing me to bring stories to my peers who did not seem to care too much about the score, but rather the people on the teams instead. I knew that I had work to do, and that’s where Ben Spitalny thankfully came in, and the two of us formed the best partnership, constantly working together. We’ve had the best adventures.
The experience that truly shaped my time on staff was as Donor Relations and Business Manager. I’ve never been a business-oriented individual, but I wanted to learn, and grow my skillset. Similarly to being a Sports Editor, this role has involved plenty of cold emailing and phone calls, most that have gone unreturned or rudely answered, but many which have resulted in revenue for The Hatchet.
I’ve never been more grateful for an experience at this University, and have loved every second on this paper, and all the people who I’m grateful to call my closest friends. Being on staff has taught me the biggest lessons, that betting on myself and countless others matters, and that at the end of the day, it always all works out.
Fiona Riley and Hannah Marr: My fearless leaders. You girls have killed it this volume. I can’t wait to see where you will both end up and the wonderful careers you will have. How lucky am I to have met you both and have had the pleasure of becoming friends with you.
Syd Heise: I adore you (and Enzo). Hatchet gave me a friend for life. I’ve never met someone who works so hard on every story, assignment, and project whether it be for your classes or for The Hatchet. You have the kindest heart and I know your passion and drive are going to take you so far in life.
Ben Spitalny: My neighbor, proof-reader, and friend, New York got a lucky one. Your constant zest for new pitches and growing this paper will serve you in any career you have. I am so thankful for The Hatchet for bringing us together and giving me this incredible friendship. (And thank you for teaching me about basketball, and being the most passionate individual about Basketball Guide that I will ever meet) I can’t wait to see how your future plays out.
Ryan Jainchill: Keep bringing your jokes, laughter, and endless hope for the Bruins wherever you go. You’re the only member of this paper that I consistently run into in SMPA, and I love it.
Alex Batzar: I’m so proud of you and your work in Business. You work so hard on every single ad you get for the paper and on your outreach. I can’t wait to see what you do next.
Lexi Critchett and Arwen Clemans: I love you both dearly, and you both hold a special place in my heart. Your talents are top-notch and you are each the definition of a girl boss. I can’t wait to see all of your front page photos as you work on the best papers.
Luke Wienecke: I am sure you would have loved that David Holt is the speaker at the Elliot School’s Graduation ceremony this year. Ben and I talk about you all the time, and how we want to continue to make you proud. We are always thinking about you and your family, and know that you would be so happy with the work that Sports is constantly doing.
Everyone Else: My family, Emma, Sofia, Asier, and Fig… thank you for holding me together and being the best support system a girl could ask for. Each of you hold the most important parts of my heart, and have never wavered in your love and support. Love you all.
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