I spent what might have been my last summer at home — a small farm town in the middle of nowhere. Being home for one final summer was a thought that never crossed my mind until the moment arrived. As I begin my senior year at Pepperdine, there are so many more moments that I eagerly anticipate.
I began my journalism journey as a high school sophomore. I volunteered for my hometown’s newspaper, and after seeing my first byline I immediately fell in love.
College journalism only expanded that love. From the moment I walked into the newsroom for the Graphic’s annual training week as a first-year, I felt a sense of belonging. When I sat in on my first all-staff meeting, I saw myself leading them one day.
My love for journalism didn’t stop growing once I joined the Graphic. NewsWaves sprouted my unfound love of broadcast journalism. It built my confidence as a leader and a journalist.
Through these organizations, I’ve met people who encapsulate everything I aspire to be. They showed me what it means to be a friend and a mentor. Because of them, I feel prepared as I step into my role as managing editor.
Right now, I’m in one of the moments I never thought would arrive. I’m leading the all-staff meetings that, three years ago, seemed so far out of reach. I moved into my dorm one final time and the number of courses I have left are in the single digits.
The start of this school year evokes an array of emotions. It brings a rushing excitement along with a paralyzing anxiety that makes me want to slow down time. I’ve anticipated this year and this moment — and it has finally arrived.
I’m excited to live with my roommate Daniela for the fourth year in a row and experience all of our Pepperdine lasts together after navigating all of our Pepperdine firsts together. I’m looking forward to seeing the stories the Graphic produces this year and the hard work the staff puts in to keep our community informed. Most of all, I’m ready to soak up everything Malibu has to offer and not take any moment for granted.
I still have quite a few moments before my time as a Pepperdine student comes to a close. But, I’m ecstatic for all the little moments in between — both the ones I never thought would arrive and the ones that never crossed my mind. Here’s to one last year, class of 2025.
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Follow the Graphic on X: @PeppGraphic
Contact Gabrielle Salgado via email: gabrielle.salgado@pepperdine.edu
