Every time I sit down to write this article, I find myself struggling to figure out where to begin. It’s impossible to describe what The Good Five Cent Cigar means to me in just 700 words, so it’s a good thing that I love to go over the word count.
The first article I had published for the Cigar was in the fall semester of my second year; however, my Cigar journey technically began during my first month in Kingston. I went to one pitch meeting in the second week of my first year and took a women’s tennis story. Because of the loss of one of my closest friends back at home that same week, I wasn’t able to write the story, and I didn’t come back to a meeting the rest of the year.
To this day, not returning to the Cigar during that first year is one of the few regrets that I have when I look back at my time at the University of Rhode Island. I realize now that the sense of family in Memorial Union Room 125 was exactly what I needed at that point in my life.
Needless to say, I am immensely grateful that I was convinced to go back to a pitch meeting at the start of my second year. Every week, I got more comfortable writing and was eventually encouraged to run for a staff reporter position despite my reservations about my chances of winning. I won the position, and after two extremely valuable semesters as a staff reporter, I worked up the confidence to run for sports editor.
I was incredibly nervous about entering an editor position. In the back of my mind, I genuinely had no idea if I had what it takes, and some days I still have my doubts. But this past year has exceeded all expectations and truly shown me what the Cigar is all about. From getting the opportunity to cover postseason football games to the antics during Wednesday night productions, I’ll always cherish the memories I’ve made as an editor.
There are so many people that I need to thank for making this such a big part of my life, but that starts with every one of my sports reporters. You are all so talented, and it’s been a pleasure to see you guys grow as reporters over the past year.
To Nathan Robillard, Aidan Garvey and Zack Petrick, words can’t describe how instrumental you three were in turning me into the writer that I am today. By motivating me and being people I could look up to, you guys were key reasons why I kept coming back, and I can’t thank you enough for that.
To Abby LePage and Charlie Adams, the best two staff reporters I could’ve ever asked for—you two are some of the best and most dedicated writers that I know. I knew with full confidence that I could always turn to you guys whenever I needed something, and that’s a great luxury to have as an editor. Charlie, you’re going to excel and take this section to new heights in the editor position. If either of you ever needs anything, always reach out.
To Ellie Sennhenn and Maia Hembruff, thank you for making my transition to this role so much easier. You welcomed me with open arms to the e-board and always made me feel comfortable asking for help. I learned so much from both of you, and you guys helped me discover the love I have for being an editor.
To Sadie Brandt, Ella Gerdts, Nora Kelley, Morganne Judd, Brigid Locke, Sully Cummins and Katelyn Drenga, it may sound crazy, but I’m actually going to miss staying in the office until the wee hours of Wednesday nights, and that’s because of you guys. All of you never failed to make me laugh; I’ll forever cherish the bonds and friendships that I’ve built with you guys. You are all going to do tremendous things.
Finally, to Ryan Pelillo, from orientation to living together the past two years, you’ve been right by my side every step of the way. I have always admired your passion and enthusiasm for your craft, whether that’s editing, writing or broadcasting. Above all else, thank you for being an incredible friend. Keep being you, brother. I can’t wait to see what your future holds.
The list goes on and on of people I could thank, including anyone who’s ever taken the time to read one of my articles. Especially you, Mom. You’re the best. But, I’ll leave with this: The Good Five Cent Cigar has shaped the person I am today, and I couldn’t be more grateful.
