And I'm Out!
| Published 12/10/04

Graphic by: Ande Hearn

Keeping with the tradition of past graduating Whim executives, I've decided to come out from behind the pages of my AP Stylebook to write a farewell to both Whim and RU.

My years at Radford have been interesting -- to say the least. I think I had the complete Radford experience. I would have never thought that I would have made it to graduation at Radford. It's not that I had poor grades; I just know that I have been planning to transfer ever since the first night at Quest. But I am now at, what I like to call, the "hangover" of the college experience. The party is over, and it's time to sober up and meet the light of day.

I have two major accomplishments:  I can proudly say that I survived living in Muse and Ingles without ever getting an alcohol charge, and I have never got a ticket from Parking Services. Trust me. It's not that I'm a saint; I'm just sneaky, sort of like a ninja.

I've seen changes happen with Whim, too. I was only a mere copy editor when Rachel Pasternik was in charge in 2003. Then I moved on up to Head Copy Editor when the reigns were passed to John Cordiano. I guess I'm a masochist at heart since I decided to stay on as Head Copy Editor this fall. But I have to say: Even though the people have changed, Whim still remains as a great publication with a dedicated and hard-working staff and loyal readers.

I know this might sound like an acceptance speech for an awards ceremony, but I would like to thank the people who have helped to get me through my college experience.

First of all, I want to send big sloppy kisses and hugs to my family and my friends. Ryan, thank you for knowing when to be my friend and when to be my big brother. Lindsey and Jela, I¹m with you guys until the day after forever. Loco and J-Hoe, I really do miss being the third wheel -- we made a pretty good tricycle. Peanut, I don't really have anything to say to you, because I will still see you everyday! Just count your lucky stars that you have such a beautiful, funny roommate who loves video games, movies with subtitles and cooking full-blown meals.

Next I'd like to thank all the Whim staff. Even though I went psycho when I had to copy edit until 2 a.m., I still have love for you all. I want to give special thanks to my two very faithful copy editors who have stuck with me, Mike and Michelle. Without you two, I would be lost. Good luck next semester, everybody! I know Whim will be awesome!!

As cliché as it might sound, believe me when I say that time really does fly by. The real world is tough. Trust me. Remember during this holiday break to take a moment and savor every day. 

Finally, I would like to dedicate this quote from a famous book to my fellow graduating seniors:

"You'll get mixed up, of course,

as you already know.

You'll get mixed up

with many strange birds as you go.

So be sure when you step.

Step with care and great tact

and remember that Life's a Great Balancing Act.

Just never forget to be dexterous and deft.

And never mix up your right foot with your left.

And will you succeed?

Yes! You will, indeed!

(98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed.)

KID, YOU'LL MOVE MOUNTAINS!

So,

be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray

or Mordecai Ali Van Allen O'Shea,

you're off to Great Places!

Today is your day!

Your mountain is waiting.

So...get on your way!"

("Oh, The Places You'll Go!" by Dr. Seuss)