Lilly Casolaro
News Editor 2017
I was frequently asked throughout my college experience: “Aren’t you a journalism major?” “Communication?” “English Education?”
For me, this confusion was actually quite laughable because it is what people expected from me and of me as a journalist for the Tropolitan. After about the fourth attempt of others incorrectly guessing my course of study, I divulged, “Actually, I’m a social work major.”
The look on their faces was priceless: both inquisitive and astonished. The response which typically followed was: “Then why are you writing articles for the Trop?”
Now this question is what I was really waiting for.
For me, the Trop provided an opportunity to provide relevant, accurate and newsworthy information to the student body in a timely manner. I paired my passion for people with my skill of writing to produce meaningful content. As a social work major, I brought a unique perspective to the Trop that allowed me to enhance my empathy, my rapport building and my worldview.
My biggest take-away from my four years on the Trop staff was how to effectively communicate and engage with others, whether it was with the interviewees, with my colleagues or to the audience we were serving. I made it a priority to consider the impact the written word can have on the lives of others and ensure I was proceeding with integrity.
My time on the Trop opened doors to build lasting relationships and networks with Trop staff, faculty members and community leaders — all opportunities I would not have had were it not for my involvement with the Trop.
I will forever be grateful for the friendship of Baby (freshman) Troppers Tori Bedsole and Michael Shipma, who always keep me on my toes and remind me there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Professor Steve Stewart, adviser to the Tropolitan, I am greatly indebted to you for your patience with me in learning AP style, among many journalism techniques, and for your continued support of me in all areas of my life.
Zach Henson, future editor-in-chief (has a nice ring to it!), you have demonstrated your commitment and dedication to the Trop from day one, and I am so proud of you.
Future news editor Emma Daniel, you have radiated your passion for journalism, and your eagerness to learn is contagious. I will always be rooting for you, and remember, do it for the students!
For those who are not journalism, communication, English or “traditional” writing majors, you still have a place at the Trop. Everyone has unique talents and skills to bring to the table, and yours are needed and appreciated on the staff. Each person has a story to tell and voice to be heard, and it is up to you to find yours and help others discover theirs.
I think the Tropolitan has taught me more about putting knowledge into practice than any course on the Troy University campus has, or could have, ever taught me.
