I took a typography class my sophomore year, which ignited my interest in print and publishing and ultimately brought me to the Texan’s Basement. I applied to join the design department with the intention of leaving after a semester or two because I had no experience with layout design, student newspapers, or yearbooks. It never occurred to me that this would be the beginning of a journey that would involve six positions, four departments, and five semesters.
I began as a general issue designer, but in my second semester, I added opinion illustration and balanced the two jobs. Double coverage followed, and since UT moved from the Big 12 to the Southeastern Conference, I had the chance to redesign it. The Texas A&M Rivalry Edition was my favorite DC assignment; UT always prevails, whether it’s in football or magazine design. After the football season ended, I was forced to return to the design department, but I couldn’t resist becoming a data graphics designer in the new data department as well. I’m penning my farewell as the design editor at the end of the road.
Looking back, the people, mentors, and friends I’ve encountered along the road have made my trip meaningful, in addition to the opportunities and accomplishments I’ve had at The Daily Texan. I owe this to the Daily Texan, which was the first group at UT where I felt like I belonged.
Carla, even though I had no football knowledge and, to be honest, still don’t, I appreciate you taking a chance on me and assigning me the role of double coverage design editor. I appreciate your confidence in me as your associate, Katie, and your efforts to make the design department a genuine home for both new and returning employees.
To my current and former design team, you are all incredible. I could always rely on you, Ava and Sofia, when things became tough in DC. You were the greatest issue designers I could have asked for, Gracelyn, Gabriela, Dominic, and Paris. I appreciate your commitment. You’re a hero, Lauren, for persevering through some insane last-minute copy log adjustments. I will miss our arguments over the Transformers films, Genese. And I wish you continued success in reaching new creative heights, Ana.
Kirti, Lindsey, and Schuyler, I will always be grateful for your leadership and direction. My one constant was design, but my experiences with data, DC, and opinion illustration have added depth and significance to my tenure at the Texan.
Thank you for all of the amusing weather jokes, Aaron, Alyssa, and Newt. My favorite section of the paper will always be this. (Go look under the weather on Page 2 right now if you’re reading this and still don’t know what that is. This column can wait, I promise.
We would especially want to thank Taylor, Brian, and Copy for consistently completing their staffbox and teaser sections. I apologize for not coming back, Mia, and I will miss our late conversations about our common experiences in Washington, DC.
Peter On my first day as DC design editor, you gave me some advice that I will always remember: Decide and go on. Every time I catch myself spending a bit too much time pixel-pushing on a layout, I tell myself this again. As I write this piece, I still consider staying to try out a different position, work in a different department, or take on a new challenge. However, it’s time for me to heed your counsel once more and begin planning the next phase of my life.
Thank you and farewell to the Daily Texan and its pages!
