Senior Reflection: Alexis d'Ambly

Starting at Centenary two years ago, I never expected my college career would propel me this far. I can’t believe it's time to even write this piece. I came to Centenary University after getting my associate’s degree for both the proximity to my house and to have an opportunity to get involved in ways I was never able to in high school or community college. I knew Centenary University had a good writing program, but I had no idea what to expect. 

When I was placed into Intro to Journalism and Student Newspaper Production Studio, I had never written news before. I read articles on WRNJ, NJHerald, and in print newspapers to get a feel for the writing style, not expecting to grasp the material so quickly. 

Within a span of weeks, I nailed a complicated news story and worked my way up to copy editor and managing editor. Honestly, I just liked being a part of the team. That semester, I really didn’t have any major goals other than studying the different forms of writing. I was just interested in honing my craft and discovering something new. 

However, potential was seen in me, and I couldn’t believe that after one semester, I was asked to be editor-in-chief. 

Over the course of three semesters, I found where I belonged. I found a group of like-minded, inspiring writers. I learned how to work with a team, help students become better writers, and get involved on campus by attending events on the fly. I encouraged the writing majors to join the editorial staff, bringing our team from two people, not including Professor Zatta, to six. I made real friendships and connections with my peers and the campus faculty and staff. 

It doesn’t even feel real that in one week, it’ll all be over. Centenary and the newspaper have been my home for the last two years. I found my skills in writing, public speaking, and editing. My work on the newspaper led me to tutoring, book clubs, yearbooks, and the literary magazine. I also discovered exactly what I wanted to do next after college. I don’t think I’d be going into education and graduate school without the newspaper experience. 

Over two years leading the newspaper, there are too many memories to pinpoint. My favorite times have just been chatting, laughing, and discussing articles with the editorial staff before class in the club room. It’s a very different atmosphere than the classroom. Also, being able to write in a variety of mediums—news, features, reviews, editorials—where I utilize my journalistic skills, creativity, and personal writing style has been more than enjoyable. 

Writing for the newspaper became my life. It took up the bulk of my time, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. I would’ve been lost without it. 

Leaving the newspaper and graduating is going to be the hardest move of my college career. I’m eternally grateful for everything. I have never graduated from a school—from elementary to community college—where I was actually dreading leaving, and it’s all thanks to The Cyclone Chronicle. 

This doesn’t feel like the last week of classes. It doesn't feel like it’s ending. Publishing the last refresh on Monday will be difficult. 

However, I am looking forward to seeing what comes next. I’m looking forward to grad school and teaching. I’m looking forward to bigger opportunities. I can’t wait to visit again next semester, since I’ll still be in the area. I look forward to reading The Cyclone Chronicle next year and seeing where it goes. Centenary will still be my home. The newspaper will still be my home. 

Thank you for everything!