By Julie Depenbrock ’13

I’ve said before that, as journalists, we deal in truth.

Here is what I know to be true:

Being on the newspaper changed me.

For most of my life, I lived in a shell—retreating from the world and feeling afraid. I was safe in my shell. Comfortable, but not happy.

Fear was my inhibitor, as it is for most.

But then someone told me about the capacity for greatness that exists in all of us.  It is a greatness that lies dormant when we refuse to challenge ourselves.

Newspaper gave me the chance to challenge myself.

It began in meetings. I talked with administrators, faculty, custodians, students, and workers. I was forced to branch out. It was awkward, at first—it always is. But I learned and evolved.

This newspaper has been my life for two years. This staff, my family.

I just watched the sun rise from Farinon for the last time. The finality is sinking in. It’s over now, or close to it.

It hasn’t been easy.  I’m as tired as I’ll ever be. And yet, I can’t seem to leave. It’s an affliction.

I wish it didn’t have to end.

-Julie Depenbrock ’13