My time on “The Colonnade” editorial board would not have been nearly as joyous or complete without the wildly intelligent Kate Verity and inimitable Kylie Rowe.

Stepping into this position, I’ll admit I was more than nervous and not sure what to expect. I didn’t know most of the people on the board. But it was Kylie who marched up to me, introduced herself and assured me we would tackle the Arts & Life desk together. Instantly, I knew Kylie and I were going to be friends.

That’s the thing about Kylie—she has this way of making people instantly feel like you are her best friend and fully understood all at the time. It is truly a gift.

It wasn’t long before I met her roommate, Kate, the soon-to-be Editor in Chief. With her undeniable attention to detail and unparalleled work ethic, it was obvious from the moment we first interacted that she was going to take on the world. 

Soon enough, these two girls would be the ones I would call in the middle of a boy crisis, or to cry about Taylor Swift with. They listened with intention and always managed to put a smile on my face. For all the times you two have given me a ride home or gone on a spontaneous endeavor with me, thank you. You will never understand how much your consistent friendship has meant to me.

Both Kylie and Kate are the very definition of twin flame best friends, even more like sisters at times. They love deeply, and they’re never afraid to show their passions. They share the kind of unspeakable kinship everyone dreams of finding during their college years. 

The (sometimes extremely) late nights putting together the student newspaper were always filled with the most joyous laughter and secret sharing that I would not trade for anything in the world. I know for myself, “The Colonnade” will never be the same without these two beautiful people to work alongside. I learned valuable experiences and lessons from the pair that I will always carry with me.

Kate and Kylie, I am endlessly proud of you. You both inspire me every day to be a better leader, thinker, listener and friend. To know you both is an honor within itself. 

I cannot wait to see all of the monumental moments you will accomplish in your careers and lives. Along with so many others, I will be cheering you on every step of the way, whether virtually or in person. Please, always remember the essence of your sparkle and the little people in Milledgeville who love you so.

As you walk across the stage on Saturday, Dec. 14, I hope you soak in every moment and feel an immense amount of pride for the past four(ish) years. You both deserve every good thing this world has to offer. When Swift does another greatest hits tour in forty years, we better all be going together.

Thank you for everything. I love you both, always.