About one year ago, I was approached by Jessica Huseman, the editor in chief elect of The Daily Campus. She mentioned that I should consider working for The Daily Campus as opinion editor. Initially, I dismissed her suggestions, giving it little thought. But despite my original instantaneous rejection, I could not get the idea out of my head.

As a political science major, I have always been fascinated by the role of the media in political affairs, and this seemed like the opportune moment to acquire some first-hand insight into this relationship. So, I called Jessica and told her that, despite my inexperience and lack of qualifications, I was interested.

Now, a year later, I could not be more thankful for the seemingly “random” experience, which has been anything but. I have had the opportunity to engage with the opinions of the SMU community in a very unique way, learn a new skills (InDesign and AP style take some work, and I am still working), and be a part of a staff that is excited, committed and always current.

Despite being one of the only non-journalism majors on staff, I was welcomed and patiently taught how the production of a newspaper takes place. At first, laying out my one page took me about three hours every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. Today, I rarely spend more than an hour laying it out—unless of course, I am distracted by witty political cartoons, new posts on the Quote Wall or Josh’s music. Yet, I never regret the extra moments spent in the newsroom on the third floor of Hughes-Trigg.

I would like to thank each member of the staff of The Daily Campus for all that they have taught me and for all of your hard work. I have grown immensely from this experience, and I will forever be grateful for your patience in teaching me. And furthermore, this campus is indebted to you. It is rarely noted how much time and effort is devoted to providing SMU with a reliable and current news source. I have been so impressed this past year. Thank you!

But most importantly, I would like to thank all of those who have submitted opinions to The Daily Campus during my tenure as opinion editor. It has been entertaining, educative, and exciting to follow your thoughts and questions. Students, professors and alumni alike have contributed throughout the year, and the knowledge I have gained from this is immeasurable. I am always fascinated by the ease with which eloquent opinions and editorials are formulated by so many intelligent and insightful members of the SMU community.

And, of course, the often passionate responses that create a dialogue on my page prove that freedom of opinion and freedom of speech are protected in this country and on this campus.

As a citizen of Mexico, I know very personally that this freedom has historically not always been guaranteed and still today does not exist in every country around the world. But where it does, my hypothesis that the media influences politics has been irrefutably validated this year, in and out of the newsroom. I have attentively watched the developments in the Middle East, the response to bin Laden’s death, the groundbreaking of the Bush Presidential Center, and more, not just on the traditional news sources, but also on my page. The media acts as a liaison between public figures and individuals, and the opinion page is a direct conduit by which public opinion can be gauged.

In conclusion, I can say, with no doubts, that this has been a worthwhile experience. I will always cherish the memories and lessons.

Adriana Martinez has served as opinion editor of The Daily Campus. She is a junior political science, public policy, French and history major and can be reached for comments or questions at [email protected].