Maybe it was the front page, maybe it was the writing, or maybe it was the reputation. I don't know what drew me in, but it was love at first sight (sorry Erika). I knew from the first week of school that I wanted to contribute to The Heights. However, I never imagined that a writing stint as a news staffer would transform into two years of boundless memories and experiences that would shape my sense of belonging at Boston College. I never expected that I would become surrounded by - and friends with - some of the most dedicated students on campus.

Working the past two years on The Heights board has been one of the most defining experiences of my college career. Ultimately, The Heights was the ideal welcome to BC. It introduced me to a world of opportunity and personal growth. As a freshman, I had the privilege of learning from Ryan Heffernan, the former editor-in-chief. He believed in me from the start. He showed me the great power of a mentor, exemplifying how to make the most of my four years in Chestnut Hill, Mass. Since then, The Heights has been such an integral part of my BC experience, becoming tied to my identity as a student.

Like most great institutions, however, I believe the heart and soul of The Heights is its people. I am honored to have the opportunity to thank the board members who have made a permanent mark on my life.


Erika - Thank you for giving me your unconditional love and support. You are my rock, best friend, and girlfriend. For the past two years on The Heights, you have been a constant source of happiness and joy for dozens of people. For the past year and half with me, you have made our relationship better than I could ever imagine.

Chris - You have been there from the start. Ever since freshman year, we have only become closer. Your depth of character, intelligence, and worldly knowledge are just the top three traits that I not only admire about you, but also hope to embody. I am psyched for you to study abroad in Cairo, but I also can't wait for you to come back more experienced, cultured, and worldly than you already are. I know that you will always be a lifelong best friend.

Pilar - After becoming close friends over the past two years, I know that you have the ability, drive, and vision to accomplish whatever you set your mind to. I only have the highest expectations for you as Editor-in-Chief because I have come to know your unlimited potential firsthand. I can't wait to see what you do for the paper. Although I won't have a desk next to you anymore, I know that our relationship extends far beyond the office. I am truly thankful to call you a close friend.

Grant - What you have done for Page 2 is mind-boggling. In all seriousness, I think you're going to be a managing editor to be reckoned with. You know how to strike a perfect balance between humor and sincerity. I know you don't let your hood down often, but inside, I know you're a kind, caring, and warm person. Doing "Dustbowl" with you became the highlight of my production days. Grant, you're going to do great things. You always strive for excellence. Thanks to your fun personality and careful balance, you will achieve it.


Fouhy - I think your long-term vision has not only strengthened the paper, but has also set the bar for years to come. More than anything, I think you have established the importance of moving beyond day-to-day affairs to shape the direction of the Heights' future. Thank you for giving me your trust and confidence. Thank you for always being needlessly understanding of my other commitments. Your strong leadership, great sense of awareness, and ability to fulfill your goals has been a positive influence for all of us.

Alexi - I remember your dedication to the paper from the beginning. Before it became a requirement, you came into the office to ensure that your stories were of the best possible quality. I think you're going to be a fantastic news editor. You have built strong relationships and established yourself as a great writer. P.S.- You would be a great mentor to freshman, too.

Lauren - While I truly admire your strengths as a manager, I can't help but appreciate your ability to make others feel welcomed with your presence. Your warmth, generosity, and kindness make it a pleasure to spend time with you.

Pat Irish - I think you are one of the most genuine people I know. You make me feel appreciated and valued. Your calm, gentle attitude and great sense of humor filled the office with such cheerfulness. Everyone knows just how much you care about the paper. I am happy that you found your passion. You are not only an excellent journalist; you are an all-around great person. I am privileged to call you a friend.

Tim Mooney - I think the Opinions section is an ideal fit for you. I don't think there was anyone more qualified to lead this section. I am happy you share a similar vision for Opinions. I know you will only enhance one of the most important sections by enlivening it with spirited, diverse dialogue. While this section needs to remain traditional in many ways, I would love for you to spice things up. Best of luck Tim!

Jackie, Tula, and Courtney - Copy is the most under-appreciated section, period. You girls have such an unbelievable dedication and constant love for this paper. It never ceases to amaze me. I am so happy that I had the opportunity to become friends with the three of you.

Lisa De Gray - You always go out of your way to help others. Ever since meeting you freshman year, I have loved your well-rounded personality and sense of clarity. I think you can be the voice of reason in any situation. You know so much more than you say. You are always capable of making a positive impact on someone's life. You have certainly made one on mine.

Tue - You always bring a smile to my face. You are such a genuinely kind and caring person. Keep up the hard work, Tue!

Stuart - I think we are similar in a lot of ways. I am truly happy that we became friends. You have done a great job with the Arts section. Your dedication and passion has shone through in all the editions. I always have a good time when I'm around you. I trust your opinion on good movies, music, and TV. I will watch Planet Earth soon, I promise.

Paschall - I think you have a lot to give. You are a great public speaker and strong communicator. You not only know the right thing to do, but actually do it. I respect your value and morals. You have a wide range of knowledge and strong sense of practicality. Thank you for your patience and understanding throughout the semester.

Jeff Weinstein - I have always looked up to you, Jeff. I have more respect for you than you know. You have such a great sense of class. Always confident, but never arrogant, you bring such a strong and experienced sense of leadership to the paper. You lead your life with great integrity. I am proud to call such an overall authentic person like you my friend.

Jessica - From geoscience to The Heights, we were instant buddies. You're such a fun person, Jessica. Your laugh lights up any room.

Nick Tarnoff - I feel like we're on the same page with a lot of things. I don't know how to describe it, but I think you know what I mean. It can be in the middle of elections, a random comment, or during an editorial meeting, and we seem to be thinking the same thing. I am happy that I have been able to learn from you the past two years. Thank you for your friendship.

Ian - I think the world of you, Ian. I truly respect your worth ethic and dedication. Most of all, you embody professionalism and integrity - something that can be rare these days. I am happy I found someone who enjoys hockey as much as I do. I have enjoyed hanging out with you both in and out of the office. The paper is lucky to have your talent, drive, and leadership. The pictures will look better than ever.

Keith - You're one of the coolest people I know. If you're somewhere, I know it will be a good time. People always say, "Don't take life too seriously." You're the perfect example of that advice, and I truly mean that in the best way possible.

RLQ - Let's just say if we didn't have a class together next semester, I don't know what I would do. You're such a fun person, and a truly dedicated Heights editor. I am always amazed by your work. I look forward to continuing our friendship, marketing buddy.

MKP - From The Heights to RAing and OLing, we have shared some great experiences. I admire your leadership, personality, and work ethic. You are the only person I know who is involved in the same three organizations as I am. I think we have developed a solid friendship.

Mariel - Your sense of humor, smile, and genuine attitude toward life make you such a great friend to so many people. You did an awesome job leading FLIP this year. I'm sure you were more influential to the freshmen than you'll ever know.

Blair - I knew you were an amazing person before I even met you. I remember hearing about the legendary Blair at CBA, "the RBC girl going to BC." When I finally met you, I understood what all the talk was about. You bring life and excitement to all that you do. The Arts section is lucky to have someone with such a vast knowledge base. You are a fine representation of N.J. for the new board!

Zach, Joelle - The Heights is lucky to have both of you. Like Erika says, it's hard to believe that you're both in your first year here. You have such a bright future. I can already sense that you are going to contribute to The Heights on many levels. You have the maturity, experience, drive, and attitude to be successful. By the end of four years, I know you're both going to leave such a positive mark on BC.

Tom Wiedeman - Your note meant the world to me. Thank you. I always feel supported by you. It was a privilege working for you. You made Page 2 fun to do. Whereas most people could care less about the page, you cared enough to not only read it, but to make some great suggestions. You helped make my "Top 5" idea a reality. You hung my News & Note on the attacking turkeys in your office. Whether it's as small as that, or as significant as some of our conversations, you have been a great resource and friend to me.

Steven Keppler - You have told me on several occasions that you see a lot of yourself in me. It works both ways. I look up to you as a mentor and a friend. I will always remember how you dropped everything you were doing, the first time I met you, just to talk to me. Since then, you have become one of my good friends. I think we have a unique relationship. In a lot of ways, you are like a big brother to me here, and yet, it seems to work in both directions. Thank you for always giving me your full attention and being there for me as a friend.

Dave Benoit - You are, and always will be, one of my favorite people. You always crack me up, and yet, I know I can depend on your for guidance and support. You have been with me from the start of my Heights career. Thank you for giving me the encouragement to achieve my goals and always being a good friend.

Sal - My FLIP mentee. I knew you were a solid kid from the moment I met you in the Eagles' Nest. Aside from being an awesome kid, you're stirring with artistic creativity and talent. I hope that you continue to draw on these gifts.

The Heights 2008 Board - Make the most of your time on The Heights! You truly make a difference in the BC community. Carve your own experience and make your section your own. Focus on the relationships as much as your section. Most of all, have fun!

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