Normally, these columns are reserved for seniors as they prepare to graduate. I am neither. However, my time at The Observer is coming to an end, so here is my goodbye.

I’ve had the pleasure of working with one of the best editor crews The Observer has likely ever seen. Many people aren’t fortunate enough to be excited to go to work every day, yet alone consider their co-workers family.

Adam: Where do I even start? Whether you knew it or not, you’ve been my unofficial mentor since my first quarter as a reporter. It’s been such a pleasure watching you evolve from assistant scene editor to editor-in-chief. The newspaper needed leadership and that’s exactly what you gave it.

You know when you’re laughing so hard that literally no noise comes out? I’ve never experienced that so many times until I met Chance. From being a sports reporter to editing the sports section together last quarter, my cheeks have never hurt so much from laughing. We were a really good team, and I wish you the best of luck.

Chace/“Davy.” Thank you for welcoming me into the news section. I’m sure it was rough to work with someone who had never been involved with news, let alone a third of the way into the quarter. But you made it easy and I thoroughly appreciate all you taught me.

As someone who’s only played video games twice in her life, I don’t understand a lot of what Maria talks about. Still, Maria, you have one of the biggest hearts I’ve ever met. You’re a genuine person who speaks your mind and sticks to your guns. The newspaper needs people like you who aren’t easily swayed.

Spencer, I could always count on you enjoying my Tuesday cookies. I’m glad I got to know you better. And, hey, my sports knowledge has increased significantly through your explicit rants.

In all honestly, Jonathan, I didn’t know what to think of you when we met last quarter in COM 226. But my thoughts about your tattoos and gauges were swept aside as I realized what a breath of fresh air you are. Your quick wit and timely sarcasm brought a ray of light into the windowless newsroom.

Derrick, you are an enigma; no one has cracked the mystery that is Derrick. You’ve really stepped up these past two quarters and have become a valuable asset.

Haley. Quiet Haley. I’m glad I got to know you better this quarter, because you’re not as quiet as I thought. You’re a strong copy desk chief and you have contributed immensely to the stability of this newsroom. I know you’ll do great things wherever you go.

Colt, you’ve done a lot this quarter to enhance our online presence. I admire your dedication to improving this newspaper. I’ll miss your boisterous laugh and caring attitude.

Cynthia and Steve: I sincerely apologize for the vulgarity you had to witness during staff meetings. It took strong individuals to advise and be a part of our rowdy crew. We truly put you to the test. You were stern when we needed it, yet lenient when appropriate. I can’t thank the two of you enough for guiding this newspaper.