By Kerri Linsenbigler
Associate Editor
I did not want to join The Bona Venture. I vehemently refused for more than a year to even write so much as a movie review. I had no desire to see my name in the paper. I did not want to be a print journalist, so what benefit would the BV be to me?
My assumptions were completely wrong. I finally got pulled into this weird world of deadlines, AP style and late newsroom hours as a sophomore by my roommate, who was already an editor here. I begrudgingly agreed to write a few articles for her section, and less than a year later I was pulled up to be a features editor alongside Angel Roggie and Matthew Laurrie, my partner-in-crime and now one of my best friends. My roommate said all along I’d love the BV, and as much as I hate to admit it, you were right, Al. Thanks for getting me in to this crazy place and for always being there for me.
At the BV I learned to write. I learned how to interview. I learned time management and how to think creatively. I learned how to lay a page and edit an article. Most importantly, I learned to tell a story. This is the basis for any job in the communications field. Every skill and technique I’ve learned at the BV, I’ve used in public relations and marketing internships and other positions unrelated to print journalism. I’ve honed marketable skills I can use after graduation.
While the practical aspects of the BV are great, I never thought I would have such strong relationships with other editors and writers. Nearly all of my best friends I met here at the BV. A special thanks to Elizabeth Grady, my feats role model and one of the best people I know and Kyle Zamiara, who has always been a great friend. One last shout out to Taylor Nigrelli, who has always believed in me. You’re a dime, kid.
Four years ago, I didn’t think I would get anything from joining this newspaper. In actuality, it has given me friendships, skills and a passion for telling stories. I know the other members of the BV feel the same way. So, congratulations to all the other senior editors! Let’s make the most of these last few weeks as Bonnies.
