Robert, sitting in front of the Illinois State Capital, back in Apr. Photo provided by Robert Morse.
Well everyone, it’s that time where I must say goodbye to the Navigator. It’s been an amazing experience, learning how to write for a public newspaper, and managing a team of this size. I first started out as a reporter under Audra Gullquist, in the fall of 2022. Fresh out of high school, I was wanting to get involved with student clubs, and I thought the school newspaper was a good place to start. I originally wanted to write as an unpaid contributor, but I quickly joined the staff, and created content, on topics such as the Eurovision Song Contest (this is an amazing yearly song contest, between the countries of Europe. Look it up if you’re interested.), and the political environments of the USA, and other countries.
During that time, I quickly acclimated to the Student Life office, and its staff. They were the most welcoming, and helped me get over my fears of higher education. They will always be a place where I can feel comfortable to be my full self. I also got the chance to help out in other Student Life events, such as helping to set up the weekly Student Activity Board events. Additionally, I joined the Student Government Association (SGA), and I have had the honor to serve as the student body Vice President, advocating on your behalf. I would highly recommend applying to the SGA, simply because it is not as political as most think. It is just a group of students, working together to improve our great school.
Overall, I’ve learned a lot from the Navigator, and Student Life as a whole. Everyone should come into the Student Life office, and find a way to get involved. It’s a good place to hang out, get snacks, and connect with other students and clubs. It’s also allowed me to feel comfortable to express who I am, as someone who is on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. In fact, I’ve led probably a team of the Navigator that has had the most people on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
I’ve rambled on enough, so, I’ll conclude with a quote from Douglas Adams’ The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. : So long, and thanks for all the fish.
