Thank you TNS for everything

BY JOLEE SKINNER / Editor-in-Chief

Two in a half years ago, I transferred to Tarleton State University from Tarrant County College. I transferred as a Broadcast Journalism major and didn’t know where to begin in terms of what clubs or organizations to join for my major. On my very first day of class, I found out about Texan News Service (TNS) and immediately applied. 

And now, almost two years later, it's time for me to say goodbye. TNS has brought me so many opportunities and brought me people I never knew I needed. And TNS has taught me so much about myself as a journalist. 

I’ve always been passionate about journalism and reporting the truth and was super excited to be hired on as a multimedia journalist. I really wanted to grow as a writer and a journalist. And I did exactly that during my time at TNS and I was given so many wonderful opportunities during my time here.

I was given the opportunity to travel and learn more about the journalism world. I met really phenomenal people in the industry and developed new skills. I was given the opportunity to meet and interview so many incredible people. From Dr. Hurley to local business owners to students who have the most heartfelt stories. I was given the opportunity to grow as a journalist. I grew so much as a leader, especially under pressure, making hard decisions and so on. I grew in my editing skills and have learned so much more about the industry. 

There are so many countless things I could say that TNS has given me, but the most amazing thing TNS gave me was new friendships. I got to work with the best people you could have asked for. Seeing everyone for SMAC meetings, traveling with everyone, eating countless meals together, I was given the opportunity to know the most hard working, smart and talented group of students I’ve seen. 

Michaela, thank you for laughing with me all the time and killing it at the broadcast. Jaxon, thank you for all the jokes and suffering with me in a particular class this semester. Haeley, thank you for nailing the website and always showing up for everyone. 

Kiley, thank you for hard work and kindness to everyone. Payton, thank you for always being a sweet soul and being there to talk about Taylor Swift. Thomas, thank you for always being there to edit broadcasts and you have come so far and will do great things at TNS. Ashtyn, thank you for jumping in on broadcast and you are going to kill it next semester as executive producer. 

Copeland, thank you for always being a listening ear when I needed to rant and being a great friend who cares so much about everyone. You are going to do great things in life. Reese, thank you for being my best friend, my confidant, my ride or die, my travel buddy and my sister. You are going to be the best editor-in-chief next year. 

To Mr. Lewter, thank you for everything. Thank you for all the opportunities, the ability to travel to new places, your insights into the industry, being a cool teacher, your guidance as a leader and for always supporting us no matter what. Thank you for pouring into your students.

TNS, you were the best part of my college experience, farewell.