I am dangerously close to leaving my comfort zone. Since before I can even remember, I always knew what the next step of my life was going to be — until now.
In elementary school, my goal was to eventually date my third-grade crush. In middle school, my goal was to join the yearbook staff. In high school, I knew I wanted to go to college at East Tennessee State University.
I have always been sure of these things, and I have accomplished them. I always thought that by the time I got to college graduation, I would know what the next step would be.
However, at this moment the only certain thing that will happen in the next few weeks is that I will walk across a stage on May 5. I will shake a lot of hands — mostly of people I have never met before — take pictures with my fellow graduates, and receive a piece of paper that costs a great deal of money and time (or at least the cover which that piece of paper will go into a couple of weeks later).
While I can’t honestly say I am going to miss writing 10-page papers or staying up all night studying for a big test, I will miss a lot of other things. I’ll miss the fact that it is socially acceptable for me to be poor right now. I’ll miss the sense of comradery with other college students. I’ll miss the guilt-free indulgence of junk food, the excuse to live off Ramen noodles, and the late-night runs to Taco Bell or Mid City. Most of all, I’m going to miss working for the East Tennessean.
I began working for this paper my freshman year. It was probably the best decision I ever made in college. After four years, 200-something issues, and writing 60-something articles, my time here is almost done. I feel like I have learned more in this office than I did in any classroom.
Being involved in the newspaper was like being involved in the entire school. I have worked with several other organizations and helped them get the word out about what they do. I’ve seen profiles of students who are often unrecognized, but have made some great accomplishments. I’ve seen so many stories of people involved on campus who take time out of their busy day to devote their time for a better cause.
Alaina O'Neal 