In high school, I couldn’t wait to be in college. During my freshman year at Marshall University, I already couldn’t wait to graduate. Now, as I write this farewell letter the day before my final print night with The Parthenon and during my last week of class, ever, I’m finally realizing that these have been some of the best years of my life.

In January 2018, I began reporting for The Parthenon after already dropping the class once the semester beforehand. I was a nervous wreck, and I didn’t have much self-confidence. But soon enough, I began seeing my name in the paper, and on the front page, and I realized this was exactly where I belonged. There was something so wonderful about seeing my stories in print and having a platform to publish my work. Still, I never imagined I was capable of being executive editor.

Aside from honing my skills and giving me the confidence I needed to begin pursuing a career in journalism, The Parthenon has brought me to some of the most wonderful people. 

Sydney, I never would’ve guessed that I’d find such an amazing and loyal best friend during my last year here at Marshall. Thank you for always being there for me and explaining sports lingo to my clueless self. I’ll always cherish our wine nights while watching Bachelor in Paradise and of course, trivia at The Union. 

Amanda, thanks for being the best managing editor I could ask for. I’d never get by without your copy editing skills, and I’m so happy I had a friend like you to rely on throughout this crazy journey.

I’m proud of the person I’ve become, but mostly, I’m thankful— for this school, for this community and for the countless opportunities I’ve been given. Although this chapter is closing, Marshall and The Parthenon will always hold a special place in my heart. This place has shown me who I am, who I aspire to be and what I’m capable of.  

If you know me, you know it wouldn’t be possible to end this farewell without a quote from the woman I’ve looked up to since middle school: the legendary T. Swift.

“There are going to be people along the way who try to undercut your success or take credit for your accomplishments or your fame. But if you just focus on the work and you don’t let those people sidetrack you, someday, when you get where you’re going, you will look around and you will know — it was you, and the people who love you, who put you there. And that will be the greatest feeling in the world.” — Taylor Swift

Hanna Pennington can be contacted at [email protected].