When I reflect on my four years at AU, I think the most formative and educational experiences I have had happened outside of the classroom. The better part of my college education has taken place in MGC 252, behind the doors of The Eagle office. In that room, I learned exactly how much work goes into putting together a newspaper twice a week, which goes far beyond editing, staff management and writing headlines. During my three years on staff, I have had experiences that completely changed my worldview. My beliefs and convictions have been challenged in ways I could have never imagined, and it has been remarkably fulfilling.
Education is supposed to be a taxing, uncomfortable and intense experience. College should be a place where one’s beliefs can learn to bend and reshape, and students should rediscover themselves and “think outside the box.” Anyone who can go four years without experiencing or learning something completely life-changing is probably doing it wrong.
I cannot help but leave here slightly jaded by a learning environment that claims to be open-minded but sometimes proves otherwise. However, I also leave feeling rather hopeful. For all the struggles that have come with this experience, I believe that there are others out there who are willing to have their beliefs challenged — and I hope that willingness is contagious. In the coming years, I hope The Eagle continues to serve as an important source of information for this community. Through well-reported articles and thoughtful opinion pieces, this newspaper should be an important addition to the conversation that takes place on this campus.
I could not think of a better person to help lead this dialogue than my successor, Charlie Szold. In his two years as editorial page editor and managing editor for news, Charlie has shown his tireless dedication to The Eagle. His commitment has been an inspiration for the entire staff. I know that he values discussion and conversation, and he is passionate about accuracy and good journalism. I have complete faith in his abilities, and I am confident The Eagle will get the AU community talking about important issues under his guidance.
I wish the best of luck to Charlie and The Eagle staff next year, and I cannot even put into words how grateful I am for all the extraordinary people I have met while working here. As for the AU community, I urge you to be open-minded and have your beliefs challenged from time to time. And, as I said in my letter at the beginning of the year, keep making news.
Thank you,
Jen Calantone Editor in Chief, 2009-2010
