To be perfectly honest, I’d rather write a dozen more articles about tacos or even Topper Tats than a senior farewell. But finally, after four long years and threats to quit on at least three different occasions, Hilltop Views is kicking me out, so I guess it’s time.   

To say I’m not totally sure how to handle this with grace is an understatement. I’m being completely honest when I say that I owe Hilltop Views more than I could ever express. Besides all the professional opportuntities and adult skills and such, Hilltop Views opened the door for me to St. Edward’s and introduced me to many of the people I’ll miss the most.   

Working on a staff with some of the most sassy, entertaining and goodhearted people you can find has made it so that some of my fondest memories will be from working in what is surely an asbestos-ridden office.

Yes, these are the same people that hacked my facebook about six times and posted weird stuff about Rachael Ray and cats. But these people are also full of endless giggles and encouragement. They always brighten my day, whether they’re doing yoga on Andre’s couch, driving my transportationally-challenged self around, showing me ferret pictures (even when I didn’t want them to) or introducing me to the wonders of adding lime to everything.

I have oodles of respect for them all.  

If it’s not clear who I’m talking about, I’m talking to you Jacob, Lyanne, Max, Audrey, Raneem, Sara, Amber, Jenna, Kayla, Taylor, Jerry, Laura, Paula, Erica, Nicole, Michael, and J-Rog (plus all those I’ve been working with for the last few years). Y’all are the freaking best.

Now that the music is officially playing me off the stage, I’d like to give one more plug for Hilltop Views: please go to a meeting next year, recognize that you have something to say, recognize that we can help you say it and that we can help you become a better writer while you do it and finally, consider joining the staff and getting your own version of my nerdy newspaper family.