Working at The Daily Orange has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my college career. Aside from having the opportunity to put my illustration skills to the test daily, I’ve gained a great deal of friends. I’m really going to miss everyone and I’m so happy to have had this time with all of you. So onto the sappy part.

Mom and Dad: Thanks for always being there for me, even when I call freaking out on the phone. Don’t expect those phone calls to stop as I venture into the real world. I can only imagine they might become more frequent. I love you both.

Grandma and Grandpa: Without the support of both of you, I would never have made it through college, let alone high school. There is nothing I could do in a lifetime to repay what you have done for me. I love you both so much, and I miss you every day, Grandma.

Will: The first time I put a pencil to paper to create something legible, you were there guiding me. It’s really because of you that I’m even here. I’m lucky to have a brother who is always looking out for me, even in the times that it is not in your best interest. It’s a gift that is not easily returned. I can’t wait to come to Pittsburgh. I love you, brother!

Sean: I know I’m leaving college with a friend who isn’t going to disappear once we graduate. I’ve never had a friend so loyal, and I am proud to call you my best friend. These four years have been a blast and I can’t wait to see where we end up.

Kasey: You are the sister I never had. There isn’t anyone else I would have rather traveled Europe with. I know you aren’t sure of what you are going to do after school, but I know you’ll land on your feet. You are too smart, talented and hardworking not to.

Kelly: There isn’t anyone quite like you in the world. Your tenacity makes you a joy for those that work with you. It’s not always easy to crack you, but those who do realize they’ve gained an indispensable friend.

Elizabeth, Vicky and Will: Working through the illustration program for four years has at least always been interesting. You’ve all become some of my closest friends. It was always a pleasure to blow off work and chat late into the night. Don’t stress so much about figuring out your life, it’ll happen. Will, get out there and shove your work in people’s faces.

Ankur: Friendship with you has always paid off in pizza, but beyond that, my favorite nights were always the ones where you were designing next to me.

Erik: I’ve missed you this semester in house, but it’s been wonderful that you came back at the very end. Keep playing Pokemon and please stay away from my mom.

Emmett: You brought the art director position back to life with your tenure at The D.O. I hope I’ve kept that fire going, and I am very proud to have followed you.

Meghin: Honestly, you were one of the people who made me feel welcome when I first got to The D.O. I hope Binghamton treats you well, and I promise I will come visit.

Mark: Keep wearing those white pants. It’s been great becoming friends with you. Don’t worry, I still remember your drunk threat regarding Lauren. POW!

Laurence: Thanks for opening my eyes to the loaded fries at Cosmos! Beyond that, thanks for always making me feel comfortable coming into Management for whatever reason.

Chelsea DeBaise: Moving down to Pulp was one of the best decisions I made while working at The D.O. It allowed me to become closer to so much of the staff, but especially to you, Miss DeBaise. I’m going to miss working with you and making the most vulgar jokes possible. Have so much fun in Italy and a fantastic senior year! I expect to hear from you in the future.

Andy: You are going to love working at The D.O. You’ll be busy, but I know you can handle it. Kick so much ass and have a great senior year! Stay in touch, too!

Lauren: I always really enjoyed spending time with you in Italy, and when we played husband and wife in the play, we should have both known the seed had been planted. The rough start to our relationship has blossomed into the most important and wonderful thing that has happened to me in college. I know we are both scared for what awaits us after graduation, but we will find our way to each other. I love you so much.

Published on April 30, 2013 at 7:02 am