Ah, those endless Tuesday nights/Wednesday mornings when random laughter consumed us as each hour passed. When I leave the office of The Minaret for the last time, I’ll be reminded of so much. Derrick’s stories of the “McCardle farm”, Knauss and Phifer’s bickering, Peter and Bobby’s basketball games at 3 a.m., Charlie zoning out while standing in everyone’s way, Max’s annual Thanksgiving drawings, Charles’ jokes that made me laugh so hard I would cry and the bursts of laughter from Mel and Alex to break the silence in the office. I would never trade those moments because during those times I learned to be a journalist. But it’s also when I’ve made some everlasting friendships.
When I was 10 years old I went on a field trip to the CBS station back home. From the moment I stepped in that studio, I knew I belonged in the world of journalism and The Minaret helped me reach my dream of working in television news.
My career with The Minaret started freshman year, when I became known as “Nancy Drew” in the office. That name started because I helped unravel a sexual assault case on campus, which sparked an investigation by the Department of Education. That next year I worked on a story about a string of health violations racked up by UT’s very own Dining Services. But it wasn’t just those stories that made an impact on my experience as a reporter. I’ve had the opportunity to connect with fellow students and faculty and understand their stance on issues. That in itself is rewarding.
During my three and a half years here, I served as a print and radio reporter, news editor and online reporter. Having interviewed some of the top UT administrators, and Today Show hosts Matt Lauer and Al Roker, working at The Minaret gave me so many rewarding opportunities to achieve my goals as a journalist.
When I first walked into Vaughn 211, I knew nothing about journalism and since have learned so much and so I thank the following people endlessly: Charles McKenzie, you taught me journalism from the beginning. You inspired me to get the big interviews and to leave an interview only when I had the answers I wanted. You pushed me to investigate and to never give up. For all of that and more, I’m forever grateful. Josh Kratovil, you took me under your wings and put up with my rambling stories week after week. Victor O’Brien and Steve Knauss, thanks for letting me chase the big stories. Alex Vera, the webcasts would not have been possible without your hard work.
Another round of applause goes to past and current staffers. Your dedication to the paper each week is truly inspiring. I feel privileged to have worked with you throughout the years to help make The Minaret better with each semester. And to future staffers. If there’s one thing I learned about working at The Minaret, it’s that you’ll have more fun on a Tuesday night that you’ll ever have again in your life. Thanks everyone!
Ellery McCardle can be reached at emccardle@ut.edu.