Without The California Aggie, I would have never had the chance to experience the entirety of the people, places and events of my sweet college town
By OLIVIA HOKR
At the beginning of my second year of college, I came across a volunteer staff writer vacancy for The California Aggie. I submitted an application, because I figured it could be a fun side gig. Despite the fact that I had incredibly slim writing experience on my resume, I soon found myself on a Zoom interview with the editor-in-chief, giving her my top desk choices. The girl who submitted that application is incomparable to the one writing this senior column.
Over the past five quarters, I’ve written 39 articles for The Aggie (yes, I went back and counted). Spending all of this time on the city desk has been the best experience I could ask for. I had the opportunity to learn from the best — shoutout to Chris and Hannah — and develop real writing and communication skills. Something you may not realize when applying for the newspaper is that you’re going to have to talk to strangers, and you’re going to have to do it often. I can confidently say that emailing and approaching random people to interview them is no longer as scary as it used to be.
As I prepare to walk the commencement stage a year early, I continue to recognize that people think I’m going to miss out on so much more of “the college experience.” However, working on the city desk for the past few quarters has made me feel more connected to my college town than any amount of years in school could. I have learned an unimaginable amount about different local businesses, annual community events, the Davis Farmers Market, the Davis City Council and so much more.
To my friends at the farmers market, the city council’s public information office, various small business owners and the strangers I’ve approached to ask questions, I wouldn’t be where I am without you. I have learned about so many people’s experiences in Davis, whether it’s as a student, a long-time resident or a director of an organization, and I enjoyed every minute of it. I loved being able to tell your stories and shine light on parts of the community that deserve it.
In my final printed words, I want to thank everyone who reads The Aggie. Even to those who only pick up a paper to read their friend’s story or to play the crossword, your loyalty means the world to all of us. I want to extend an even bigger thank you to my family and friends for always reading my articles.
If it weren’t for my time on this newspaper, I would not feel nearly as successful or content with my three years at UC Davis. With a big heart and deep appreciation, I bid my last farewell to The California Aggie and the Davis community for all of the stories, big and small, that have truly prepared me for the real world.
Written By: Olivia Hokr — city@theaggie.org
