9 papers published, 42 articles written, 3 years with The Postech Times. These are the numbers that sum up my time here—numbers that will never change. Yet, to me, it is the memories of laughs, struggles, and dilemmas that will truly last. It might be something that an Editor-in-Chief shouldn’t say, but The Postech Times was more about the people than mere texts.

Whenever I read an article, I can see the person who wrote it. Why they wanted to write it, “minor” incidents along the way, and whether that article was late or not (yes, I’m talking about you). I have read every article by my seniors, colleagues, and juniors. Each of them a great writer in their own way, their stories have been clipped and archived in a scrapbook that will always reside in a corner of my mind.

I won’t lie and say that my years at the newspaper were a breeze; everyone who stood beside me along the way knows. I also won’t lie to myself and say that I was a good reporter because, I probably made more late submissions than anyone reading this. And I won’t lie to you and say I was a perfect Editor-in-Chief because, well… it was a bit of chaos, mostly because I wanted to try something new all the time. I hope you had fun being part of this whirlwind of a year. I will, however, say one thing with confidence: I wouldn’t have made it if it weren’t for every one of you.

So, while I have the floor one last time, I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge your hard work and the memories you have given me. Starting with So-mang, our award-winning writer and the only Senior Reporter, always busy and about across the campus. Seon-been, our Editor-in-Chief-to-be, who always brings the most interesting topics. I know I’m leaving the paper in good hands. Moon-hee, the life of the party, who handles the hardest articles with ease and grace. Ri-ahn, our lifesaver, never hesitant to help someone in a jam. Jong-hyeok, our resident Gen Z,  whose great writing doesn’t need any help from modern tech. Do-yoon, who’s always eager for an interview and bursting with creative ideas. Tae-hee, our “oil prince” with a keen eye for the latest tech. Ji-woo, who is often skeptical by tongue but passionate by work. Yu-jin, who isn’t afraid to fight for matters that other people avoid, but must be addressed. To me, every one of you is among the best writers in the world.

I also want to thank the reporters of the Korean newspaper—Ho-yeon, Ju-hyeong, and Yoon-chul—who helped me get through this year and shared so many memories. Thank you for always looking out for me. To our seniors (don’t worry, I haven't forgotten you), thank you for being my rock and anchor even after you moved on. I truly appreciate it. Last but not least, our administrator, Mrs. Son, who always puts reporters first, and our faculty advisor, Professor Kang, who guides us and provides a shield for us to write freely. Because of you, we were able to write fearlessly.

I made a lot of mistakes, and there are many things that I wish I had done differently. But if you ask me if I would want a do-over, I’d happily say no. I know that I gave it my all in those moments. I have no regrets. I tried my best to represent our reporters and fight for what was best for them. I hope it helped, at least a little.

This year, I truly felt the weight of ‘responsibility.’ I learned so much about communication and had many chances to reflect on the role of a leader. It still feels strange to think that I will no longer be a part of this, but as my favorite artist trio put it, ‘The reason life feels like a journey is because there is more to leave behind than to take with us.’ Thank you everyone. I now conclude my journey here and take flight toward a wider world to seek new challenges and even greater growth. I’ll be right back.