Reflection: Jess Napp

I came to New Paltz knowing that I wanted to pursue journalism without ever having written an article. I just knew that I loved to write. Journalism classes came and went. Yet, by sophomore year I started to hunger for more articles. The New Paltz Oracle remained an intimidating presence. The people there seemed to really know what they were doing. Eventually, I mustered up the courage to pick up a story. That year I wrote on and off for the paper and at the end of the spring semester I decided to run for a position. My knees shook under the table as I introduced myself to a vaguely familiar group. “Hi, I’m Jess. I would like to run for Arts & Entertainment copy editor,” I said, my voice trembling. Long story short, I received the position and here I am a year and a half later. 

The decision to leave was hard. I think about those vaguely familiar faces that I came to know, along with the new ones that popped up along the way that I’ve already started to miss. Leaving is the right thing for me at this time, but that doesn’t make it any easier. At The Oracle I realized that I chose the right major. So, here is my love letter to some of the people along the way who made an orange room feel like home. 

Kristen, when I became a copy editor you became editor-in-chief and boy, have you been a fantastic leader. Not only are you wildly talented, but you also manage to consistently show up in a chaotic newsroom looking effortlessly calm and chic with a swipe of red lipstick. You are going to do amazing things after graduation. 

Jack, when I think of news I think of you. Ever since freshman year I thought, here’s a guy who knows a thing or two about politics. I’ve always admired those who can write news well and you’re at the top of that list. The future of the paper is in good hands. 

Mell, again you are right up there on that list of news aficionados. You’re talented beyond belief and occasionally fact checking for you was a pleasure. You’ll definitely make Nate proud. I’ll be on the lookout for some more of your incredible A&E articles too. 

Rachael, news is going to continue its stellar legacy with you in charge. You may be a younger staff member, but you are skilled beyond your years. I’ll miss hearing your stories. 

Meg, I’ll never forget your spoon article. You took something that didn’t appear interesting and created an incredibly fascinating story. I know you’ll keep moving through the ranks. Also, never lose your sass! 

Amanda, you are one the kindest people that I’ve ever met. You exude warmth and just make people naturally want to be around you. Working at the copy desk with you and creating found poetry was so much fun. Keep producing brilliant content. 

Briana, meeting you in Arts Writing was a joy. I’m so happy that you’ve joined the staff. I love reading your pieces and it’s so awesome that you went to a Blink 182 concert. You should definitely write more music reviews for A&E. 

Erica, you’re such a positive and bubbly presence in the newsroom. I could tell from our first conversation during elections last semester that you would be a great addition. I’ll miss your musical expertise. You are going to do wonderful things in A&E. 

Sam, you are someone that I truly admire. From working as copy editors together to you becoming A&E editor I’ve learned so much from you. You’ve taken the section to another level. I can’t wait to see what you do next. Thank you for your compassion, trust and help. 

Jackson, thank you for always making me laugh. You’re one of the funniest people that I’ve ever met and our wine column is still one of my favorite things in general. You make the A&E section awesome and a ton of fun. 

Melissa, you’ve been there for me since the beginning. You helped me write my letter of intent and taught me how to write slugs. You’re an amazing friend. I owe you a debt of gratitude. I know you’ll make the “real” world a better place with your talent and wealth of SpongeBob knowledge. 

Anthony, we both ran for copy editor positions at the same time. I feel like in a way, because of that, we’ve grown together. I watched you go from submitting one story a week to having an entire page dedicated to your pieces. I’m eager to see how you  progress further. 

Michael, from the beginning you’ve always made me feel welcome at the paper. I’ll miss your infectious smile and impressive Conor Tuohy impression every Wednesday evening. You’re going to do great work as sports editor. Keep making sports interesting! 

Holly, Jeanette and Matt, though I don’t see you all as much as the others you are such an integral part of this paper. All of your photos are beautiful and whenever I pick up a copy of the paper I gravitate towards them first. 

Luke, you’re so kind and skilled. I love seeing how you bring our crazy ideas at the editorial meetings to life. Thank you again for offering to help me out. Keep creating!

Well, that’s it! I’ll still be sure to pick up a story and occasionally say hello. Thank you all for everything.