The Commentator
Volume 63 Issue 1

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Year in Review

Noah Striet
Outgoing Editor in Chief

Conclusions are often the hardest to express. To wrap a whole year into a neat package is no easy ordeal.

It’s quite ironic so many times I wished it were over and now I wish I could turn the clock back and begin again, of course, with one minor stipulation – to return knowing what I know now. And so I hand over the title and the yoke that comes with it, and though I feel free, I also feel loss. There was so much accomplished, but so much that might have been.

The Commentator - The official undergraduate newspaper of Yeshiva University. There is grave responsibility that accompanies this paper, more than I bargained for when I assumed the title. There is great power in this paper, more than I ever fathomed when I began my tenure. Allow me to touch upon the responsibility and power, two forces that are inextricably tied to each other:

There is little sleep. There is a plethora of articles to be edited. There is the unfathomable responsibility, knowing that every word in every article must be checked for factual accuracy, grammar, syntax and spelling. Imagine, accountability for 16 to 24 pages of material almost every two weeks. There is little praise and much venom - I have been called "filth" and "immoral;" it is always nice to know that you are loved.

<Ð>Yet, there is vast power. The power to affect change. The power to provide knowledge. The power to build and the power to destroy. Do you think I’m exaggerating? I know I am not.

I suppose the proper way to close out a year as editor-in-chief is to impart a message encompassing all that I’ve learned in my tenure. So, I’ll give it a shot.

To the administrators of Yeshiva University: Don’t fight your students; work with them, work for them. Remember that you set the standards for this institution, and many of you serve as role models. Realize that people imitate those in positions above them.

To the professors: I’ve been a student for quite a while now. I’ve had professors whom I will remember for the rest of my life and professors whom I have not considered since I’ve left their classes. Remember that you, the professor, can make or break your student’s desire for an education. Infuse life into the material you give over; teach with fire and passion; show "the big picture" application for the information you impart and your students will not only memorize information, they will become their knowledge.

To the students: While the dual curriculum is an incredible strain, a strain which no other college places upon its students, you have chosen to come here on your own volition realizing the potential benefits and drawbacks. You are the life force of Yeshiva University and there is nothing you cannot accomplish. Remember the strength of numbers, the power of protest and the incredible might of you, the individual.

To the future editors-in-chief: You wield vast power. Use it wisely and remember that you are now part of an illustrious institution that is entering its 63rd year.

And now as the 62nd year of The Commentator comes to a close, I’d like to thank you, the students, faculty and administrators of Yeshiva University, for the opportunity of having been able to serve you. Additionally there are a few personal thank yous I’d like to make and with that I shall bid you all adieu.

First and foremost, Ari Kahn, my co-editor-in-chief and my new lifelong friend. Ari, you are a man wise beyond your years. Quiet, never in the limelight, but insightful, analytical and I dare say, in your own way, brilliant. You have given me a new vantage points from which I can better view life. There is no way I could have done it without you.

Deans Adler and Hecht: You have served as role models and friends. I appreciate your consideration and understanding of the toll this position takes.

My professors: Without your understanding, I would have been up the proverbial creek.

My two roommates: Thank you for being my support throughout this tumultuous year.

Finally, to all my friends that have put up with my insane schedule, my crankiness, and my lack of time - you know who you are - thank you.