Pacific Index

Some parting words from the Index’s editor before graduation 

   The Pacific Index is one of the coolest student-run organizations on campus. Of course, this is coming from me, the Editor-in-Chief, so I might be a little biased. However, in less than a month I won’t be the editor-in-chief, but I know my opinion will remain the same. As I get close to graduating and telling Pacific goodbye, I want to share some parting words about how special this newspaper is. 

   I became the editor of the Index over the summer before my junior year. When my advisor Phil Busse offered me the position, I was surprised to say the least. I had never done any work for the Index before, and now I was meant to be running it. While a bit nervous, I was honored to take on the role and see where it led. The first several months of being editor were a bit unsteady. I was timid— my voice shook when I tried to lead the meetings, I wasn’t good at encouraging deadlines, and I had more experience writing than leading. Mostly, I felt like I was in way over my head. 

   And yet— while I had my own difficulties learning to lead, the newsroom was impossible not to love. In the depths of Walter basement, the Index staff would cram around the long oval table that’s since been replaced with fuzzy beanbags. The walls were bare and the only mark of ownership in the room was a small Pacific Index sign and some leftover newspapers. While the room was plain, the students definitely were not. The group shared story ideas in a frantic, rambunctious way that was all at once ridiculous and brilliant. 

   This eager and energetic culture quickly helped me feel a sense of belonging and helped me find my footing in leading. Each semester since, I’ve gotten to meet new students and see how they engage with writing and storytelling. I’ve had the chance to see students find their beat, get more confident sharing their thoughts and upholding their ideas, and building community within every facet of Pacific. Every student who’s walked into the Index room has left behind a major contribution and a lasting impact. 

   Personally, I’ve not only appreciated getting to work alongside these students, but I’ve also enjoyed meeting every single person from Pacific that I’ve engaged with. The best part about being a journalist is having the opportunity to meet people that you might not have otherwise met. Each conversation that I’ve had with staff, students, faculty, and administrators has been both a learning and a bonding experience. My understanding of leadership is forever changed from this experience and my love for journalism has only grown. 

   As I prepare to graduate, I am very happy to leave the Index in the capable hands of Olivia Azzollini who will be taking over as editor-in-chief. Azzollini is fun and witty, full of energy, and very compassionate. Having the opportunity to work with her over the past two years has been so fun and rewarding. Through her, and the other incredible staff, the Index will live on and grow to be even better. 

   While I’m still not sure where I’ll end up after graduation, I know that wherever I am, I’ll still be reading each issue of the Pacific Index and feeling proud of the Boxers.