My journey started simply with a suggestion from a faculty member: write for the school newspaper. I had spent the 30 minutes prior to that suggestion talking about how much I love watching and discussing film. I distinctly remember that day and not for a moment did I think it would lead me to where I am today: the future editor for The Wichitan.
I came to The Wichitan as someone who did not know what he wanted in life. I was in a major I did not see myself getting a career in. I had no future goals I wanted to attain. All I knew was that I loved talking about films and saw The Wichitan as an outlet for my opinions.
My experience with this newspaper has been surreal. I distinctly remember my first encounter with the editor, Kara McIntyre, and how daunting my role at The Wichitan felt. I was no longer voicing my opinion with my friends — I was publicly putting my opinion into the media for all to read and judge.
However, the more I worked through the newspaper, the more great memories I made. From getting a massive amount of feedback on my critical review of the new “Beauty and the Beast” film to waking up at an ungodly hour for Hotter ‘N Hell to the nerve-racking task of reporting on last semester’s graduation. All of these events greatly enhanced my college experience and I cannot wait to experience many more.
This is all with the help of an amazing staff that has welcomed me since I started working for the newspaper. The Wichitan is home to some of the most amazing people who I am eternally grateful for. I wouldn’t take back any of the time I have spent with them and look forward to working with them more in the future.
Through my endless droning about movies, long hours spent on reporting and late nights helping the staff get ready for print, my passion and drive started to surface and it became more clear that I was in an environment I belonged. I then changed my major from political science to mass communication and made clear goals for my future.
I applied for the editor position because I knew mass media was something I have a passion and drive for. In the past year, The Wichitan has fostered so much growth in my life and I want to repay the favor.
I am thankful for Steve Hilton who pushed for me to join The Wichitan. I am thankful for the many reporters who have welcomed me with open arms. And I am thankful for Kara for being a great editor and role model. I have big shoes to fill, but I am more than ready for the challenge.
Tyler Manning is a mass communication junior.
Bye Kara, hello Tyler
