When I entered the Rec Center four years ago for the annual club fair, I had no idea where my life at the University of New Haven would lead.

I walked around each RSO’s table for what seemed like hours, signing my name on countless interest sheets, and hoping to find an organization that piqued my interest. I approached the Charger Bulletin table with hesitancy; I had never written for a school newspaper before, and I had no idea how. Still, when the then Editor-in-Chief Matt DiGiovanni threw a free Charger Bulletin Frisbee my way and encouraged me to sign up, I knew the newspaper was something I’d want to pursue.

After writing my first article, I felt a sense of fulfillment. I wanted to be a journalist, and I knew The Charger Bulletin was where I belonged. Being elected as Assistant Editor my junior year was a complete whirlwind. Not only did I grow as a writer, but my experiences with the newspaper made me feel closer to the campus community as a whole. The friendships I gained that year through The Charger Bulletin with our neighbors (Chariot Yearbook and SCOPE) and USGA are priceless. The 2012-2013 Editor-in-Chief Elizabeth Field became one of my best friends at UNH, and I have the newspaper to thank for that.

This year, I assumed the role of Editor-in-Chief, and I can’t believe how quickly this year has flown by. It seems like yesterday I arrived at the Student Activities Office ready to start the first September issue. Now, I graduate in less than two weeks and I cannot say enough how much I will miss this place, my job and the people I have gotten to know. Samantha Mathewson, the current Assistant Editor, has not only helped me keep my sanity on those long Monday nights editing in the office, but she’s also proved to be one of the most dedicated and talented people I’ve ever worked with. I am confident she will do an excellent job as the incoming Editor-in-Chief.

Taking her place as Assistant Editor will be Elissa Sanci. I met Elissa two years ago during her freshman year. The first thing Elissa wrote for The Charger Bulletin was an article on marijuana use on campus. I remember this article so vividly because it was incredibly well-written, especially for a first-time writer. I immediately saw great potential in Elissa, and know she is the right person for the Assistant Editor job next year.

Fifty-two issues later, writing my last editorial feels rather bittersweet. I cannot express how important it is to share your opinions, whether it is through an editorial or an article. I hope the newspaper has provided you all with a well-rounded forum to openly express your thoughts. I’ll miss every opportunity The Charger Bulletin has offered me, and I’m eager to see what life has in store.

Farewell readers, and good luck to all graduating seniors. For those returning next year, don’t forget to pick up the first issue of The Charger Bulletin!