As much as I would like to dedicate a paragraph to each and every one of you, I am afraid that Max’s really long reflection limits my space. So, I am going to keep this short.
I have re-written the first sentence of this reflection approximately 20 times. There is no perfect way to concisely summarize how much I’ve learned, how much I love and admire all of you and how proud I am to say that I was a member of The New Paltz Oracle for three damn semesters.
This orange room…oh this orange room. It is stuffy, it is hot and crowded, but it is full of some of the most brilliant, dedicated, inspirational people I have ever met. My dear Oracle friends, it has been a privilege working with all of you. Thank you for your support, your patience and most importantly your friendship. Each of your smiles will forever have a special place in my heart. Even yours, Max. Although I could do withour your creepy laugh.
Don’t worry, Max: there’s more to you that I like than dislike. I will surprisingly miss those inappropriate jokes. You always had the ability to bring a smile to my face even at 3 a.m. when words no longer even made sense. And I really love you for that. Aside from that, you are an impressive journalist and I know that you will be successful in that scary world of college graduates. I am proud of you and thank you for being such a great friend.
When I first joined the paper, I had no idea what I was getting myself into but with the guidance and support of a wonderful leader, I found my place. Julie Mansmann, you are an incredible leader and a talented journalist. Thank you for your patience, your thoughtful words of encouragement and your caring attitude. You are truly an inspiration. I really mean that.
Andrew, I am thoroughly impressed with you. I like to make fun of you, I know…but can you really blame me? You were the sports editor. I’m sorry; what I really meant to say is that I am so, so, so proud of you. Congratulations on getting the managing editor position. I know you’ll do a great job. I look forward to checking out your work next semester.
Zan, my baby boo (Jew). When I first met you, well, I have to agree with Max – you were a little scary. But girl, I love you now. It might have something to do with your curls, your pretty voice, your slamming copy editing skills. I’m not really sure. But you being happy makes me happy. You are intelligent, funny, Jewish and working with you has been a pleasure. Let’s hang out this summer.
Tacopina, I am going to say some nice things about you but don’t get used to it. I think you have a beautiful energy. You are a caring, motivated individual and I am so happy that you got a page editor position next semester. I look forward to skimming through the sports section.
Katie, you are the sweetest person and next semester, you better not let Tacopina pick on you. But seriously, you are a smart girl and I know that you will continue to do a great job on the paper.
John Brandi, you best hold the news section down. Thank you for being such a great copy editor and fact checker. You are a great writer and have done such a wonderful job this semester. I know you’ll do a great job!
Rachel and Jaleesa, I am glad I got to work with the both of you this semester. You both came through at a time when things were beginning to get a little difficult and that deserves a million thank you’s. So, thank you times a million! You are both incredible additions to The New Paltz Oracle.
Maeve, I am so happy that I got to know you more this semester. You are so caring and your words were always so comforting. Thank you for making me feel better even when you didn’t even know it.
And last but not least, Laura, my fellow Latina and photo editor. It is sad that you need to go but I hope you keep on taking great pictures and making great art. Represent.
My dear Oracle friends, I love you all and there is so much I want to say but I tried my best to keep this short and sweet. While I am in Thailand, I promise to read this award-winning newspaper. It deserves attention! I encourage journalism students to get involved. The New Paltz Oracle is the perfect place to practice journalism, get news room experience and meet some of the greatest people you will ever meet.