There’s an episode of Gilmore Girls where Rory joins her school’s newspaper. As someone who only watched the pilot episode before realizing she couldn’t put up with Rory’s attitude (I apologize to my Gilmore Girls loving friends), I would have never believed that this show is what I would have to thank for my passion, inspiration, and closest friendships. So, if you’re reading this, thank you Emma for convincing me to take newspaper instead of AP Human Geo in freshman year because “Rory did it, and it looked fun.” And fun it was.

  There is something truly so special about this class, and after four years I finally put my finger on the reason why: my lovely newspaper advisor, Mrs. Tenbusch. She has created a class with the most welcoming atmosphere, and her bubbly positivity has the capability to transform any classroom into a community. I have her to thank for building my confidence, remaining patient when I would miss a deadline every now and then, connecting me with an opportunity to write for The Northern Express, and putting up with Tess and I’s countless shenanigans. Mrs. Tenbusch is quite literally my favorite non-parent adult, and she has always encouraged me to find depth in my writing and to never shy away from asking questions, fostering my growth as a writer, editor, and individual – and for that I can only hope that I have made her proud and done my predecessors justice (shoutout Sole Demeuse, Audrey Kohler, and Anna Sperry).

  I am absolutely convinced that nothing creates bonds quite like the ones formed in A102 at 6:30 p.m. on a Monday night with Little Caesar’s, Cardi B blasting on Tess’s (formerly) obliterated phone, and heel-clicking competitions. I’ve met some of the most important people in my life through the perils of this class, and without it, I likely would not have gotten the experience to get to know them. Elijah – you are incredibly talented, and your drive will take you so far in life. Madeline – your kindness and enthusiasm are simply unmatched, and I am already so proud of the things you will go on to achieve. Molly – you are pure sunshine, smiles, and good times, and also very skilled at coloring in the lines. And, of course, my partner in crime: Tess Tarchak-Hiss. Tess, I thank the nonexistent newspaper gods every single day that this class brought me to you. Would eighth grade me be appalled that the emo girl from her Spanish II class who laughed when the teacher tripped in the parking lot was best friends with the girl absolutely terrified to miss a day of class or get an A- (not to mention she shopped exclusively from Hollister)? Yeah, probably. We can both admit that we’ve changed quite a bit, and I’m so grateful to have you by my side. 

  I will be attending the University of Michigan next year, where I plan to join The Daily so I can continue to share all of my opinions with the world. I frequently say that I’ve had senioritis since freshman year, and although I’m real sick of math tests and SSR, leaving the Occidentalist breaks my heart. Whether you’ve loved the paper, hated it, or never even bothered to pick one up, I will be leaving this building happy knowing that my writing, my leadership, and my blood, sweat, and tears have made an impact on this school in some way shape or form: even if my hours of dedication are just a background for your Valentine’s day photoshoot (but props to you all for being creative).

Until next time Occidentalist,

Aubrey Lawless