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.
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