When I first joined Technician, I had aspirations of creating satirical cartoons. The kind with rudimentary sketches and cheap humor. But I quickly learned I lacked illustration skills and my tastes were generally unrelatable, so I became a sports writer.

It would take a long highlight reel to capture all the great moments. From watching NC State men’s basketball lose in heart-breaking fashion over the shoulders of legends Dick Vitale and Charles Barkley, to covering Wolfpack men’s soccer’s run to the College Cup, it has been a special ride.

I joined Technician a little bit late, early in my junior year. My only regret is I wish I had joined sooner. If you’re interested in writing and journalism, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.

Before going further, I must give a thank you to my greatest influences. Beloved former Sports Editor Colby Trotter is at the top of the list, along with his assistant Aidan Carlson. And of course, current Sports Editor Connor VanDerMark. If you look back at my first few articles, you’d see that I’ve come a long way; they are the ones to thank for my progress.

Speaking of things that have come a long way, the crossword. I had no idea if anyone would actually do the thing. I’m grateful for everyone who has been a part of this experiment — those who have messaged us about all of the errors, those who have given clue suggestions and especially Editor-in-Chief Skye Crawford and Managing Editor Nicole Bharrat for letting me follow my folly.

The future of the Technician crossword is unknown with the budget changes coming next year. Hopefully, Vol. 107 will find a way to maintain a games section, whether it be in the print or online. Either way, it has been a treat to bring something new to the NC State community and give people something to do during their boring GEP classes.

Signing off,

Susanno