When I started working at Student Publications in September of 2022, I honestly felt a bit in over my head. It was my freshman year, and I was just looking for a campus job. I had never even thought of entering into the field of journalism. Nevertheless, I was open to trying new things and seeing how things went. Unbeknownst to me, Student Publications would go on to change my life in the most amazing ways.
My first position at the office was being an Allons writer. The section editor at the time was Marie Ducote. Working with the section, at first, had its ups and downs, as the leadership staff was still adjusting and I was still finding my footing with the new writing style. I remember talking to Lena Foster, the Editor-in-Chief, and telling her that I didn’t think I was cut out for working at The Vermilion.
Her response was nothing short of inspirational. “You are here because you are talented. You have a voice and people need to hear it. Don’t let the little things keep you from the big ones.” From that moment on, I promised myself that I would keep trying to put my best foot forward.
As the semester went on, I found my way and had a pretty good handle on things. The following semester, Lena approached me with a proposition of reviving the podcast that had been in the works years prior. I happily accepted, as I was excited to venture into something new once more. I quickly became passionate about it and gave it my all. Shortly afterward, Lena felt that I deserved to be made podcast editor.
Entering the leadership team was a whole learning curve on its own. I look back on my first deskheads meeting and remember how intimidated I felt. I now had a seat at the table with a group of people that I had looked up to my entire time at The Vermilion thus far. Fortunately, everyone was welcoming and showed me the ropes of things. My sense of belonging grew each day.
The next big shift, for me, was when I was named Allons editor under Kay Padilla’s leadership. Though I never told anyone, I had wanted the job for a while. I just doubted that I would be able to do as good of a job that others had done before me. Allons was, and is still, so precious to me and the thought of screwing it up ate at me. However, Kay’s confidence in me helped me step into the role with pride.
My time as Allons editor was such a joy. Each week, my writers came with such fresh ideas that surpassed my expectations. Unfortunately, during the fall semester last year, I was diagnosed with Lupus and that affected my ability to show up and work in the most efficient way. I felt as though I was letting everyone down. I should’ve known, though, that my friends would support me no matter what and that’s exactly what they did.
I can’t thank them enough for their love, support and understanding through that time. With some adjustments, the section continued to thrive. Another big step for me at the time was learning how to design and getting more involved with L’Acadien Yearbook. I had decided to be brave and learn InDesign. Morgan Parker, the Editor-in-Chief, was more than helpful and encouraging.
I am so proud to have been a part of the 2024-25 yearbook creation process. I think back to when we were discussing ginkgo leaves and plant silhouettes, and seeing our finished product fills me with so much pride. Morgan, girl, you did that! I will forever be so proud of you and everyone else who created that spectacular labor of love. I have truly loved every moment of my time at Student Publications, and I have so many to thank for this experience.
Firstly, to Mr. Matthew Tarver. I know I haven’t been the most open with you over the years, but I want you to know that I am the utmost grateful to you. You took a chance on this bright-eyed and bushy-tailed girl who walked into your office three and a half years ago and you watched her grow and become the young woman you see today. Your encouragement, passion and direction have inspired me greatly.
I have never known someone who was willing to fight for their students the way that you are. You have loved and cared for us like your own, and for that, I thank you. Thank you for being our champion and my role model. I can only hope that I have made you proud.
Lena Foster, my first Editor-in-Chief, you are a rockstar. You and I held a special connection because I saw another African American young woman being a boss in front of my eyes and it let me know that the sky was the limit for me. You always looked out for me and believed in my talent. Your wisdom is beyond your years and I have no doubt that you will continue to do great things. I will always be proud to call you my friend and cheer you on.
Marie Ducote, my first Allons editor and my literary soulmate, I thank you for pushing me to be my best. I am so grateful that we grew to be great friends. I loved having classes with you, hanging out and being there for one another. I wish you the absolute best in your future endeavors and I can’t wait to see what’s next for you.
Adhamm, Meg, Julia, Sarah, Ava, Andre and Malik, thank you all for being great examples of leadership for me. You guys were a dream team! I hope you all are doing well and I continue to celebrate all of your success.
To Morgan Courville, thank you for always being a support for me. I loved every minute of my time with you in and out of the office and I am so happy that you have found peace and joy in life.
Ramudhi Kariyawasam, my lavender princess and sunshine, thank you for being this wonderful ray of light that I miss so much. You are literally one of the smartest people I know and I admire you greatly.
Morgan Parker, my firecracker and my dreamer, thank you for helping me evolve. You unlocked something in me that I didn’t even know was there. You inspire my creativity. I have watched you grow and soar and I am so incredibly proud of you.
To Alyus Dick, the lens I love to see the world through, thank you for being so kind and sweet. I’m going to miss our hugs and how you’re always there ready with a joke and a friendly smile. I will always be here for you.
Charlie Martin, thank you for your infectious energy. Thank you for allowing me to share in your love of sports and sharing the best parts of yourself with us.
Ja’lyn Braud, my former assistant and starlet, thank you for standing by me and taking on responsibility when I needed it most. Your future is so bright, my girl.
Kay Padilla, my Honduran queen, my confidant, my fighter and my cheerleader, thank you for being one of the best things that ever happened to me. We entered this office together and you’ve been by my side ever since. Our connection has continued to be a source of strength and happiness for me and I hope that I have been as wonderful of a friend to you as you have been to me. It’s us against the world, KP! Let’s go out there and show them what they’re missing.
To Caitlyn, Ellie, Kayla, Joann and the rest of the staff, you all are the future of Student Publications. Continue to strive for excellence and uphold our values. Stick together and continue to create magic.
I am proud of each and everyone of you and I am eagerly waiting to see what you guys do next.
Student Publications is our home. I love you all and it was my pleasure meeting and working with you. Until we meet again!