The Spectrum Vol. 71 No. 23

Commencement 2023

Dearreaders,

ANTHONY DECICCO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF GRANT ASHLEY MANAGING EDITOR ANDREW LAURICELLA ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITOR

For many, The Spectrum is just the newspaper you walk by and never pick up, the articles you see on Reddit and the Instagram posts that keep popping up on your timeline.

But for our 10 departing editors, it’s so much more than that. For them, it’s family.

Like any tight-knit college club, we’ve bonded over late nights in the office, going out to Slicks on Thursdays, taking naps on the office coach, watching “The Hangover” to “prepare” for interviewing Ken Jeong and working together on something we care about. Sure, it’s never the easiest job — sometimes you wind up covering a crime scene, going to a tense protest or, God forbid, asking random students for their opinions — but through it all, we always have each other.

To our editors: We are so proud of each and every one of you. You’ve all grown so much as writers, journalists and, most importantly, as people. Some of you have become the people we’ve always known you were, and some of you have surprised us. But we’re proud of you all the same.

Not only have you all been the best coworkers we could’ve asked for, but you’ve also become our friends and family. Thank you for making this an unforgettable experience for us.

It’s with more emotions than we know what to do with that we’re sending 10 amazing, talented and compassionate seniors out into the world. We’re sad to see you all go, but we can’t wait to see what you do next. Never forget what you’re capable of.

To our readers: thank you for supporting us. It makes our day when we see a student on campus reading our paper, or hear someone talking about one of our stories. You’re a large part of the reason we do what we do, and our email inboxes and office door are always open to your feedback. We’re sure next semester’s staff will continue to “actively and ethically pursue all news of the university.” It’s been an honor serving you.

Anthony DeCicco, Grant Ashley and Andrew Lauricella have served as editor-in-chief, managing editor and assistant managing editor, respectively, since fall 2022. This is their final column together.

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

ANTHONY DECICCO, ANDREW LAURICELLA, GRANT ASHLEY (LEFT TO RIGHT)

A.J. FRANKLIN, ANTHONY DECICCO, KIANA HODGE, VICTORIA HILL, KARA ANDERSON, KATIE SKOOG, JAKE BLUMBERG, BOTTOM, LEFT TO

ANDREW LAURICELLA, MERET KELSEY

Seize your opportunity and run with it

Being

ANTHONY DECICCO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

I want to make one thing clear: Heading into this year, I never wanted this job.

Don’t get me wrong, I love The Spectrum

I’ve been here since my freshman year, and this place helped me find my passion on campus.

I was the sports editor for three years, and I was more than content with keeping that position.

But when last year’s seniors were set to graduate — namely former editor-in-chief Reilly Mullen and former managing editor Justin Weiss — two people had to step up and fill those shoes.

I was the longest-tenured returning member of the staff, and my initial response to the idea of becoming editor-inchief?

Hell no.

Why would I want to give up going to games and covering sports to edit stories about art galleries and SA Senate meetings?

I’m a sports writer, not whatever the hell this position wants me to be.

But after some convincing from people on the staff, I decided to run for editor-inchief. I wasn’t even sure if I really wanted to win. All of the added responsibilities and increased workload were terrifying for a kid who wrote about football and basketball for the past three years.

Running for this position was a leap of faith, and I didn’t think I was ready for it.

But after a year of running this newspaper, it’s safe to say taking this job was one of the best decisions of my life.

As much fun as I had attending March Madness and interviewing future NFL players, being editor-in-chief has been the most fun I’ve ever had at The Spectrum

But like most things in my life, it didn’t come easy.

In the beginning, I tried to be something I wasn’t. I was uptight, intimidated and scared of messing up. I would come home from the office and cry my eyes out because I felt I was a disappointment to those who came before me. I didn’t think I was capable of doing the job. I was tortured by my lack of confidence.

But then I learned that people just wanted me for who I was.

I leaned on my managing editor Grant Ashley and my assistant managing editor Andrew Lauricella for support, and ENG 394 instructor Matt Parrino for guidance. I was able to discover my identity as a leader: the same goofy and passionate sports nerd that I always was.

I learned to manage a group of over 25 editors and 30 staff writers in my own way. Was it the right way? I’m not sure. But it was kind of like Gary Sheffield’s swing or Shawn Marrion’s jumper — unconventional, but effective.

I was like a kid learning to swim in the deep end of the pool. The beginning was scary (and involved some crying), but by the end, I was having a blast.

If there’s anything that I want people to take away from this column, it’s that I earned this incredible experience through hard work and taking a chance.

I joined The Spectrum as an insecure freshman, and that alone was a risk for me. What would my friends think? What if I’m not a good enough writer? What if nobody at the newspaper likes me? Is it even worth it?

I didn’t know if I loved journalism, but I loved sports, so I stuck with it. I covered as many basketball games as I could. I didn’t care if it was a Friday night tipoff or a Sunday during the NFL season: if there was an opening to write a game recap, I was there.

I worked my way up the totem pole and

became a sports editor, which was my biggest accomplishment in life up to that point. I continued to stick with it, and with the help of former Spectrum faculty advisor Jody Biehl, even got a national journalism award out of it.

I never had the most talent (and I still don’t), but nobody was going to outwork me.

Now, as I look back at the last four years of my life, I can’t help but be thankful to those who helped me on my journey through The Spectrum

Brent, you were the first person I ever met at The Spectrum. Thank you for taking a chance on a nerdy freshman who didn’t know what to do with himself. Your kindness has inspired me to be the person I am today.

Jacklyn, thank you for teaching me what accountability is. I knew deadlines had to be met because you were up waiting for my story to be done.

Reilly, you showed me the way. You never shied away from who you were, and the staff benefitted from that. The lessons you taught me shaped the way I led this staff.

Justin, I don’t know where to even begin. You are the reason I fell in love with The

and Taco Bell. Every time I drink a Diet Coke (which frankly won’t be very often), I’ll think of you.

Meret and Alex Novak, you are two of the most talented writers I’ve ever worked with. Meret, without you, we wouldn’t have had an arts desk. Your vibes radiate throughout the office, and you know how to make people smile. Alex, thank you for making me laugh constantly — whether it be through conversation or your writing. I can’t wait to see what you do next year.

A.J., thanks for always staying late on production day and being my buddy for the midnight ride home. I look forward to seeing you become the mayor of Buffalo one day, blaring Kendrick Lamar as you take the podium.

Jasmin, you might be the sweetest person in the history of the world. Continue to cover the small businesses on campus and the other stories that would slip through the cracks if it weren’t for you.

Jade and John, you both have such bright futures ahead of you. Build off the legacy that Moaz and so many others created to document the history of this university.

Moaz, you are just the G.O.A.T. I’ve never met somebody so willing to help out. I can’t help but smile every time I’m with

reading your incredible sports coverage. You two have already improved so much, but your potential is limitless.

Ryan, good luck dealing with Grant next year. In all seriousness, you are meant to be a managing editor. When we had our first one-on-one meeting, you blew me away. You are an incredible writer and one of the funniest people I know. Know that you have all the tools necessary to succeed in your future role.

Victoria and Kiana, you two have come so far in such a short time. The news desk is what makes The Spectrum, and you guys covered some of the biggest events in the history of this campus. But it wasn’t only the big stuff, you two were reliable. You never hesitated to cover a breaking news story or head to an SA Senate meeting. Both of you have incredibly bright futures. Focus on being the great people you are and believing in yourselves, you’ll end up where you want to be.

Dylan, you bring the vibes in the office up 1000%. Thank you for being patient with us in your transition from staff writer, to sports editor, to opinion editor. You are a Swiss army knife.

Emma, like Jake, you are an unsung hero. There also wouldn’t be a newspaper without you. From late-night Mighty Taco orders to putting up with Grant’s awful music taste on production day, I’m so happy The Spectrum’s windowless office brought us together. You are the reason our newspaper looked so incredible, and we couldn’t have pulled this off without you.

Lauren and Sam, thank you for continuing to believe in the journalism we’re producing here. It means the world when alumni like you stick around and help future generations. Sam, I hope one day we can watch a Knicks championship parade together.

Matt, thank you for being my mentor. Thank you for allowing me to be your intern, for listening to my 1 a.m. Spectruminduced rants and for helping me with job interviews. You’re always there for whatever I need, and — despite my constant thoughts of self-doubt — you gave me the confidence I needed to run this operation.

And finally, Andrew and Grant, thank you for always having my back. If it weren’t for you two, I don’t think I’d be writing this column right now. You both inspire me to be better, and you helped me become more secure with myself. We did it live, and the memories I made with you two will last a lifetime.

Spectrum. You were there from the start, and you made me excited to come into the office. You brought the best out of me, as well as everybody else you worked with. I’ll always look forward to our weekly texts about sports or whatever else we have going on in our lives.

Hunter, Kayla Sterner and Sophie, you three gave me such joy. It was so incredible to watch you all grow and become great sports writers.

Kyle, you are the best storyteller I have ever encountered. Continue to blow people away with your talent and ability to share the human experience like nobody else.

Paul, you are the coolest person ever. Your calming presence made me so comfortable, no matter the situation. Kayla Estrada, your enthusiasm is one-of-a-kind. Be that inspiration you are capable of being.

Alex Falter, thanks for all the hip-hop debates and the good vibes. I’ll never forget you. Jack, I can’t wait to share a can of RC Cola with you again. You are an incredible person and it makes me so happy to see you following your passions.

Kara, thank you for being you. You’ve worn a couple of different hats at The Spectrum, but your exuberant personality has never changed. Good luck in Spain and in the future. I’m so happy I found someone who shared my affinity for McDonald’s

you. You could quite possibly go down as the most talented photographer in the history of The Spectrum. The fact that you might even be a better person than a photographer says everything anybody needs to know about you. You are going to be an incredible assistant managing editor.

Jake, I’m so happy we stumbled upon you in the Spectrum class. We quite literally wouldn’t be able to print a weekly paper — or make any income — without you. It’s been great getting to know you and I can’t wait to surprise you at one of your standup sets.

Tenzin and Darcy, thank you for cleaning up our mess-ups each week. You are both incredible people, as well as two of the best-dressed members of the staff. You are both gems.

Amy, watching you grow as a writer and person has been one of my crowning achievements at The Spectrum. Your work ethic and compassion continue to amaze me. We’ve come a long way from your one-on-one editing sessions, and I’ll value our friendship forever.

Katie, thank you for handling Amy. But I also want to thank you for the person you are. Your sense of humor and funny voices make you a hit in the office, but you’re seriously one of the most improved members of the staff. You’re gonna kill it with the Bee Group.

Brandon and Hayden, I look forward to

Grant, you are the most talented reporter I’ve ever worked with. You pushed me to become a better editor and journalist, and I can’t thank you enough for that. You’re also a great friend. Some would say we’re an unlikely duo, but I’d like to say that we’re friends for life. You are going to be one of the best editor-in-chiefs this publication has ever seen.

Andrew, you are quite possibly the hardest worker I’ve ever met. You don’t even want a career in journalism, but you treated The Spectrum like your own baby. Thanks for being a friend I can depend on through thick or thin. You are going to be incredibly successful, and I can’t imagine doing this without you.

The people I listed are the reason I became editor-in-chief, either because they helped me get to this position, or because they let me love my job.

I’ve never been the most talented journalist. But I never had to be.

My journey through The Spectrum is a tale of hard work and seizing the opportunity, even if you aren’t ready for it.

This newspaper provided me with the tools I’ll need to succeed in life, but it also provided me with friendships that will last a lifetime.

My biggest piece of advice to anybody presented with an opportunity: just show up and open that door.

Because if you don’t, you’ll never know what memories could be made on the other side.

editor-in-chief was always a terrifying thought, but it became the crowning achievement of my time at UB

Anthony DeCiCCo, AnDrew LAuriCeLLA, GrAnt AshLey (Left to riGht)

A proud goodbye

Take a moment to admire all the incredible things you’ve done

time student.

Running a collegiate newsroom is mentally and physically exhausting, but it’s always been worth it for me. When I see students reading the latest issue of our newspaper around campus, I can’t help but feel pride toward myself, and everyone on staff who made that happen.

ANDREW LAURICELLA ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITOR

I’m not your typical journalist.

In fact, I don’t consider myself to be a journalist at all. I only joined The Spectrum to make friends.

It was the beginning of the spring semester of my senior year, and I wasn’t in the best place mentally. Like many college students, I was struggling with loneliness and looking for anything to make that feeling go away.

I was hesitant about joining the Spectrum staff. As an electrical engineering major, I didn’t think I was qualified to hold any position in a newsroom. Writing and editing felt so foreign to me — I could probably count on one hand the number of essays I had written since high school. I felt like I didn’t belong there.

But I was tired of doubting myself, and I knew I had to get over my anxieties and step out of my comfort zone if I wanted to overcome that loneliness. With some convincing from my best friend at UB and then-Spectrum managing editor Justin Weiss, I joined the staff as a web and copy editor.

I never thought that less than a year later, I’d be helping run the entire newsroom.

I grew to love The Spectrum during my time as a copy and web editor. I looked forward to the rush of the newspaper’s production days every week, and it felt amazing to contribute toward such a great cause for the UB community. I met so many incredible people on staff as well.

I’ve always had a passion for leading. Given my usual reserved and quiet personality, that may seem surprising. But I love helping people, and if you give me the right mission, I will do anything and everything I can to not only see it through to its success, but continuously look for ways to improve its success.

It’s difficult for me to think of a more worthy on-campus mission than The Spectrum’s. We keep the UB community informed with accurate, uncensored news, while giving students, faculty and staff a platform to voice their concerns and make their voices heard.

When I returned to UB to complete my master’s degree in electrical engineering last fall, editor-in-chief Anthony DeCicco asked me to be the assistant managing editor. I couldn’t say no. I had no idea what my new role would entail, but I knew I wanted to contribute more, so I found ways to help wherever I could and learned as much as I could along the way.

I learned how to lay out the newspaper every week and how to improve our presence on social media. I learned what a lede and nut graf are, and the difference between a feature and news story.

Through practice, I learned how to edit, which helped improve my own writing. I’d even consider myself a good editor now.

I learned that I’m so much more capable than I could have ever imagined. Never doubt what you’re able to accomplish. With the right mindset and a passion for what you’re doing, you can achieve so much more than you ever thought possible.

But there is one lesson I’ve learned thanks to The Spectrum that stands above all the rest, which is to be proud of myself. That doesn’t typically come easy to me. It’s hard to focus on our successes over what we consider to be our failures. The joy of getting a good grade on an assignment is temporary, but the pain of getting a bad one seems to stick around for longer.

Working on the Spectrum staff is challenging; anyone who has ever done so can tell you that. It’s a week after week grind, with the hours of a part-time (and sometimes full-time) job, on top of being a full-

I’m proud of myself for helping put together a professional-grade newspaper every week — sacrificing close to 40 hours of editing articles and putting the paper together — while also maintaining good grades in an electrical engineering master’s program. Even when things didn’t go exactly as planned, we still put out a paper every week, and we kept the campus community informed. I’m proud of myself for that.

I urge everyone to take a moment to admire everything you’ve done and everything you’ve overcome. Try not to be so hard on yourself. It’s not easy, but if you can do that, you’ll start to see just how much you’ve accomplished and how impressive those accomplishments truly are.

To all of my fellow Spectrum editors: I hope you are proud of all the amazing work you’ve done. I know I am, and I am forever grateful to have worked with such a talented and kind group of people. Thank you for welcoming me with open arms and for giving me a home at UB when I needed one.

Reilly, thank you for hiring me. I am so fortunate to have been able to learn from you for a semester. Thank you for being a great friend to me and everyone on staff.

always a good time. I will always cherish our Sonic and Dons runs, and our speedwatching of Glee even more so. Thank you for always being there for me when I needed a friend.

Julie, thank you for being another one of my closest friends at UB. I am so blessed to have had great friends at college from the very beginning. Thank you for being so kind and caring, and for going out of your way to help others. I am so appreciative of everything you’ve done for me.

There is no one I’d rather eat wings and play video games with than you, Brendan. Our friendship means so much to me.

Connor, you were the best freshmanyear roommate I could’ve asked for. Thank you for suffering through chemistry and physics with me.

Kara, you immediately light up the office when you walk in. You are a fantastic writer and I hope I get to read your creative writing stories someday.

Sophie, I couldn’t ask for a better golf partner at UB than you. Thank you for making me feel so welcomed and comfortable on staff last spring.

Same to you, Jenna — I appreciate it more than you know.

Kyle, you have a gift. Your writing never ceases to amaze me. I admire how much detail and effort goes into all your stories, and I can’t wait to continue to read your work.

Kayla, your passion for telling stories and standing up for what’s right is inspiring. Keep spreading awareness through your writing.

remarkable things you’ll do.

Darcy and Tenzin, thank you for always bringing positive energy into the office on production days, and for always putting up with me, Grant and Anthony.

Katie, it’s been so rewarding watching you grow as a writer and leader on staff.

Jasmin, you are a super talented features writer and I can’t wait to read more of your work.

Victoria and Kiana, we asked a lot of both of you when you joined the staff, and you did not disappoint. I’m so proud of you for jumping in the deep end and going above and beyond what me, Grant or Anthony could’ve ever hoped for. From the on-campus stabbing to the Michael Knowles protests, our news coverage was outstanding this year, and you two played a large role in making all that possible. I’m so glad we found you both when we did. Meret, ever since the first production day in the fall, I knew your writing was special. Your story that first week blew me away so much that I had to put it on the front page. Your stories are enticing and your writing is engaging in a way where I’m always left wanting more to read. Same to you too, Alex. Your witty writing style and ability to use humor so effectively makes me smile every time I read your work.

Ryan, you’ve come so far in such a short time, and I’m so excited for you to lead the staff next year as managing editor. I’m so proud of all the work you’ve done so far — our sports coverage this semester was phenomenal. Thank you for stepping up and giving 110%.

You are such a genuine human being, Moaz. You bring smiles to so many faces in a way that only you can. I never knew that photos could tell a whole story until I saw your work. You are so gifted, and I don’t know what we’d do without you on staff. I couldn’t ask for a better person to take over my position next year than you. I know you’ll do so many great things, both during and after your time at The Spectrum.

Emma, you are the real MVP. There quite literally would be no newspaper without you. Thank you for bringing creativity and life to my issue budget layouts. You are a fantastic artist and graphic designer. Every time I think the paper couldn’t possibly look any better, you wow us all. Thank you for putting up with all my nonsense on production days.

Grant and Anthony, we did it live, and we put on one hell of a show. I couldn’t have asked for two better people to run the newspaper with. We had some tough times, but I always knew we’d get through it together.

Grant, I am honored to have worked with such an incredibly talented journalist. There’s no better person to leave the paper to than you, and I’m so excited to see all the great things you’ll do as editor-in-chief next year.

Matt, your mentorship and encouragement has meant so much to me. Thank you for always making yourself available to me, Grant and Anthony when we need advice, and thank you for everything you do for our staff.

I can’t name many people I’ve met cooler than you, Paul. Though I wish we had the opportunity to work together for more than a semester, I am so glad to have had the pleasure of meeting you. Thanks for all the good vibes on production days.

Kas, there aren’t enough words to thank you for all you’ve done for me. You’ve supported me through my highs and lows, listened to me vent and comforted me when I’m upset. Thank you for always believing in me and for helping me believe in myself. Thank you for your continued encouragement, for inspiring me to be the best version of myself I can be and for accepting every part of me. I am so lucky to have you in my life.

Ciara, thank you for being such an amazing friend. Hanging out with you is

Sai and Sabrina, it was an honor to be on staff with such talented photographers. Ditto to you two, John and Jade.

Jake, I can’t thank you enough for the work you’ve done for The Spectrum. We are in a much better spot now than we were a year ago thanks to you, and I know the entire staff appreciates your efforts in allowing us to print every week this semester.

Amy, you are capable of so many great things. You have all the qualities of a great leader, and the qualities of a great friend, too. I’m so glad we became friends this semester.

Brandon, it’s been a pleasure watching you improve as a sports journalist.

Hayden, I admire your passion, and I can’t wait to see what you do in the future.

Thanks for always bringing the good vibes, Dylan. You’re a talented columnist and I always look forward to reading your pieces.

A.J., I have so much respect for your work ethic and I’m so excited to see all the

Anthony, you’re an incredible leader, more than you give yourself credit for. You have a way of bringing the staff together, making us feel more like a family than a bunch of coworkers.

You both have become two of my closest friends at UB, and I’ll miss working on the paper with you every week.

Justin, thank you for being you. I’m not sure what I did to deserve a friend like you, but I am eternally grateful nonetheless. Your kindness is unmatched. You are a true mensch, and you’ve always been there for me when I needed it most. I will always look up to you, and I hope to one day be half the friend you’ve been to me.

Thank you for introducing The Spectrum to me. Joining the staff was one of the best decisions I’ve made in college. You convinced me to join as a way to find new friends — which I certainly did — but I ended up finding so much more than that. I found happiness at The Spectrum and I found a home here, too.

Anthony DeCiCCo, AnDrew LAuriCeLLA (Left to right)

I guess it’s time to say goodbye

The first and last column I will ever write

high school. When I did, I sat in the back of the student section with the marching band. But for some reason, screaming at the top of my lungs alongside the entire student section just felt right.

True Blue helped me find my voice, and ever since joining, I’ve felt more confident. I say what I want, I stand taller than I did in high school. I feel like because of True Blue, I’ve broken out of my shell that I was stuck in.

more year, just one more semester, how much better I could lay this paper out. I feel like I never really embraced this role until this last semester, these last few editions, and it shows.

Alas, my time has come to a close and it’s time to pass the torch onto Rachel and Katya. The two of you will do an amazing job, and I’m so excited to see what you put out together.

you; getting to know you and to listen to your stories has been a blessing. I will carry the wisdom you’ve bestowed on me for the rest of my life.

Welcome to the first and last column (and article) I will ever write for The Spectrum

I’m not really sure where to begin with this. My spiteful side really just wanted to air all sorts of grievances.

I wanted to call out my s—tty freshman roommates, who played “hot girl bummer” as I moved all of my stuff out (‘cause that was so necessary). I really wanted to call out the terrible men who’ve broken my heart over the years, such as the boy who decided it’d be fun to say, “Yeah, I’ve been sleeping with this girl for four months even though I said I wasn’t. Oh, and she’s prettier than you.”

But this isn’t what this column should be about.

I won’t be name dropping everyone I’m scared of running into on campus (as much as I would love to).

Instead, I’d like to list off and thank all the wonderful people I’ve been blessed to know, but we’ll get to that.

I’d like to reflect on my years — the ups and downs, the trials and tribulations. I mean, come on, there was a literal global pandemic while we were in college.

As I mentioned before, I had some pretty s—tty freshman roommates. My first semester here left me wanting to transfer and run away from Buffalo.

But I stayed. I stayed for my friends in True Blue, I stayed for my friend Andy from orientation, I stayed for the potential of what I could blossom into in Buffalo.

And I’m so glad I stayed.

I only just joined The Spectrum in my last year here, so most of my time has been spent in the student section, cheering along with True Blue. I never expected that going to one volleyball game with my hallmates would turn into four years of losing my voice at games and amazing friendships.

I was never one to go to sports games in

This might come as a surprise, but I really don’t care all that much about the sports. I love the rush of starting absurd chants, pissing off the benchwarmers or saying something completely out of pocket that messes up a player’s free throw.

If anyone from True Blue is reading this, I’d like to thank you all.

Ashley, Emily, Griffen, Alyssa, Gabby, Sarah, Natasha and Ray, thank you for making me want to stay in Buffalo in the first place and for giving me a safe space where I didn’t have to worry about how terrible my roommates were. Olivier and Ethan, thank you for keeping the spirit alive even through a global pandemic where there were no games. Nick, Sarah, Emma and Zianna, thank you for being the best people to be on e-board with. And to everyone else who showed up to games and helped us be the loudest and proudest club on campus, thank you.

I never imagined myself working for a newspaper, or even doing layout design, but when I received the position opening in a department listserv email, I thought I’d give it a shot. It’d look great on my resume right?

I had big shoes to fill, Paul was a beast when it came to the Spectrum layout and graphics. I thought sure, this can’t be hard. It was.

But I learned fast and quickly got the hang of it. My first semester of layouts were OK, nothing too special since me and the other creative director were still learning.

Eventually two became one, and now here I am, every week praying to the Apple and Adobe gods that my computer doesn’t crash when making final draft edits.

I feel like I’m just getting started with The Spectrum, and it’s already coming to a close. The past few weeks, I’ve been imagining what I could do if I had just one

I’d like to thank Paul for bringing me on, and giving me this wonderful opportunity to grow my graphic design skills and to meet all of these wonderful people.

Anthony, Grant and Andrew, I’d like to thank you for putting up with my s—t every week. My Wednesdays were brutal before even stepping foot in the office, and you three helped in every way possible to help me lay out the best newspaper possible each week. I could not have done any of this without your guys’ help.

Moaz, thank you for the production day taco runs. I’d like to thank you even more for stepping up in the spring to help me where I needed it with graphics and photos.

To all of the Spectrum staff, thank you for being amazing friends. I never would’ve thought I would even make friends in The Spectrum since I was just around to do layout on Wednesdays, but here we all are. Thank you all for listening to my tea spills, which unfortunately seemed to happen nearly every week this semester.

Andy, thank you for being my friend here at UB from day one. Never would I have imagined that getting mistaken for another person at orientation would turn into one of the most solid friendships I’ve had throughout college. Thank you for sticking by my side.

Ray, thank you for just being you. I’m so glad we stayed friends through all the bulls—t, even if we’re a little trauma bonded by the residents of Richmond 424.

Keara, Micky, Twiggy, Cass, Naija, Aanika, Ozzy, Rachel and the countless other friends I’ve made in the art department, thank you. I never thought that we would create such a beautiful cohort of artists together, and I can’t wait to see what our future holds together.

George, thank you for being an inspiration to my art career. I’ve never met someone as passionate about their students as

Jeff, thank you for being truly one of the best mentors and professors I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know. The support you provide to your students never goes unnoticed, and having a mentor that can help you navigate school and life difficulties has been outstanding.

To all the MFA students who have shown their support both in the classroom and in the hallways, thank you as well. You all create a net of support that the undergrads can lean on when they need it.

Professor Winter, thank you for inspiring me to heal from my trauma and share my story with the world. If I hadn’t taken your gender studies classes, I don’t think I would’ve had the courage to do that. Thank you for empowering me and helping me become the badass woman I am today.

Olivia, Kelly, Jordan, Kirsten, Taylor, Kaitlyn and Alyssa, thank you all for being amazing roommates. The expectations I had were extremely low after my first roommate experience. Olivia, I won’t ever forget sneaking a hamster into Governors and hiding it from our RA. Alyssa, thank you for being such a wonderful person to live with for the past two years. I have truly never had a better roommate.

I’d like to especially thank my therapist (who I will not be naming) for helping me heal from everything I’ve been through and providing the support I desperately needed. I was at probably one of the lowest points of my life, and I never thought I would overcome the trauma and crippling anxiety I was experiencing before I met you. With your support, I’ve found the inner peace and happiness I was looking for.

To all of the other people I have been blessed to know throughout my four years here, thank you.

I feel like I am leaving UB a better person than who I entered as. I’ve been through so much: a global pandemic, a chronic disease diagnosis, making and losing friends, heartbreak. Through it all, I’ve grown as a person, and for the better. And lastly, go Bulls.

Email: emma.stanton@ubspectrum.com

EMMA STANTON SENI0R CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Until next time

Thank you for breaking me out of my shell

ure out my plans post-college. I knew what I was interested in, but I couldn’t quite hone in on what I wanted to do up until a couple of months ago.

One of my classes junior year, Fundamentals of Journalism, led me to interview Kayla Estrada, the then-news editor for The Spectrum

KATIE SKOOG FEATURES EDITOR

Coming into college, I was absolutely terrified. I was coming from a high school of 1,118 students, a fraction of UB’s more than 30,000.

It was intimidating, but I adjusted. I came in as an undecided major and ultimately settled on a bachelor of arts in psychology.

Then, just as I started to adapt to college life, COVID-19 hit. I spent the second half of my freshman year and my entire sophomore year online at home in Cornwall, New York.

Over that year and a half, I became a bit of a shell of a human. I wasn’t used to interacting with people like I did prepandemic.

My anxiety spiked again. I didn’t realize the toll the pandemic took on me until about halfway through my junior year. I was sick and tired of feeling this anxious dread before doing simple tasks — going out with friends, going to classes, etc. I became scarily accustomed to being alone and isolated with my own thoughts.

I’m not going to blame the pandemic entirely for my unclear career path, but it did make me think I had more time to fig-

That interview changed everything for me.

She told me all about The Spectrum, and I was sold. I added the Journalism Certificate Program to my studies, which led me to intern with The Spectrum for a year.

Although I joined late, I am forever grateful that I did.

The prospect of interviewing random people petrified my post-COVID-19 self. But I told myself I needed to do it to grow. And besides, I’ve always loved writing, ever since I was a child. I’ve kept multitudes of journals throughout the years with stickers plastered all over the covers.

So why not try this out?

The pursuit of these stories led me to learn about the different pockets of UB’s community. The people I’ve met and the events I’ve covered quickly became the highlights of my college experience — from walking around campus with “accordion guy” as he plays to watching people battling robots for six hours.

I was fortunate enough to have the guidance of Matt, Anthony, Grant and Andrew. Thank you for being so supportive throughout this time and helping me navigate journalism. You all truly inspire me with your wonderful work and your unwavering dedication to the job.

And thank you to Amy for being there for me and reassuring me during this scary, yet exciting transition into the “real world.” I am eternally grateful for the “interview an editor” assignment that led to our friendship. I’ve only known you for nine months, but it feels like we’re old friends.

As I’ve been preparing for graduation and my entrance into the “real world,” I’ve also been dreading leaving the Spectrum crew. I love how each and every person brings something different to the table. The environment we have created as a team this past year has been something quite special.

I’m trying to think of this as a “see you later” instead of a goodbye.

These past couple of months have been particularly difficult. The thoughts of not being ready to graduate and being ready to move onto the next chapter of my life have been in contention every day.

The uncertainty is overwhelming. I was terrified that I would be stumped postgraduation, unable to find something in the ever-changing field of journalism.

Can I really do this? Am I cut out for this? I love to write, but am I even good enough?

These thoughts have been bombarding me for weeks.

Fortunately, I’ve recently secured a position as a full-time reporter.

I’m looking forward to this new adventure and the uncertainty is fading, but the anxiety still remains.

Thank you again to Matt for encouraging me to pursue my passions with un-

The hardest goodbye

I will hold onto these memories for a lifetime

system makes it that much easier. Mom, Dad and Connor: thank you. Now onto my Spectrum family.

The “Big Three”

VICTORIA HILL

SENI0R NEWS EDITOR

I put this off until the last minute because I couldn’t come to terms with this being the last thing I would write for The Spectrum

I’ve been thinking about this for the past two weeks, and every time I do, I get too sad. I am already getting teary-eyed writing this, thinking about goodbye.

I wish more than anything that I joined the newspaper earlier in college, because I found my people, my family.

I’ve only been with them for eight months, but it feels like I’ve known them forever.

I have met so many amazing people, and have made friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. Words honestly can’t express the amount of love that I have for these people.

The Spectrum honestly saved me. Joining the newspaper showed me what I want to do for the rest of my life. Going into senior year, I was so unprepared and didn’t know what to expect beyond graduation. The Spectrum shaped me into the person I am today, eight months later, and has set me on a path that I will hopefully follow for a long time.

I am so proud of myself and the work that I have accomplished during my time here. I made the huge jump from staff writer to senior news editor in three months, but I couldn’t have done it without the huge support system I had.

I want to thank my friends for endlessly supporting me. I will never forget the day I got my first story on the front page of the newspaper, and how supportive you all were. I love you all so much, thank you for being there for me on this journey.

I also want to thank my family because they are my rock. College is difficult to navigate, but having a grounded support

First, I want to say thank you for all the encouragement that you gave me. I was so nervous stepping into this role and had no idea what I was doing. You guys embraced me with open arms and were with me every step of this journey, and I couldn’t thank you more. I quickly realized that we are all just learning as we go and that this was about having fun as much as it was about producing amazing work. Thank you so much for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. It is the best thing that has happened to me in my three years at UB.

Grant, you are one of the most amazing and talented people I’ve ever met. You are an amazing boss and have always been there for me to guide me and help me when I need it. You are the life of the party, and you always bring laughter to the office. I can’t wait to see where your talent and perseverance take you.

Anthony, you are a big brother to me. You are one of the most easy-going peo-

yourself enough credit, Anthony. You are so passionate about this job, and anyone can see how much you care about us. I am so glad that I could call you my editor-inchief. Don’t change, stinky.

Andrew, I feel like I only got to really crack your shell open this semester, but deep down you are one of the most fun yet complex people I have ever met. I am in awe of your work ethic and how much you contribute to this paper. It wouldn’t be the same without you, because honestly, you’re the most sane person in the office. You balance out the crazy and bring us back down to sanity when we need it.

My news desk editor - Kiki

Kiana, I am already crying writing this.

I am so fortunate to have met you because you are the biggest ride-or-die person I know. It baffles me how we started this journey together in the fall as staff writers, and now we are running the news desk together. I am so proud of you and of us. I have never met someone who I work easier with. You get me Kiki. My time here wouldn’t have been the same without you. There is no one else I’d rather be staying up until 3 a.m. with, writing news stories.

equivocal support.

The Spectrum has truly broken me out of my shell. This experience is something I will hold close to my heart for the rest of my life.

I’ve become more confident in myself and my abilities. I am more able to genuinely and fully appreciate everything I bring to the table — something that seemed impossible two years ago.

I’ve learned to embrace criticism and feedback with open arms instead of anxiously avoiding it. Now, I constantly ask myself what I can do to improve, learn and gain more experience.

I have learned to be OK with imperfection and have come to view it as an opportunity to grow instead of as a negative trait.

Thank you to The Spectrum for helping me see this in myself.

I will miss you all. I will miss the hectic production days in the office with everyone scrambling around to put the paper together. I will (surprisingly) miss staying up late after an event to write coverage — rapidly bouncing ideas off each other with our eyes straining at our computers. I am so proud of everyone’s work this past year, and I cannot wait to see all of the amazing things you guys accomplish next year.

Thank you to The Spectrum for always supporting me and helping me further find myself. I know I’ve only been on this staff for a year, but it is a year I will never forget.

Email: katie.skoog@ubspectrum.com

store. Go get ‘em girl, and never forget who you are.

Editor shoutouts

Katie, you are one of the wildest people I’ve ever met, and I am so glad to have crossed paths with you. Your energy is infectious and I am so glad to be staying in Buffalo with you next year. We can keep practicing our British accents and dancing to ‘80s music as long as we want.

Amy, my German sister: talking to you is always fun and I am so proud of how much you have grown in the last semester. I know you’re going to miss us, but we will always be with you. Never forget that. Also, don’t forget to prioritize yourself and your happiness.

Alex, you never fail to make me laugh or put a smile on my face. Everyone who is friends with you is lucky to have you. You are so special, and I will miss seeing you around the office and around Ellicott.

Moaz, I honestly don’t know how you have so many hours in the day for all you contribute to the newspaper. You are one of the first people who introduced yourself to me, and I’ll never forget how welcomed you made me feel. You are an amazing photographer, and The Spectrum is so lucky to have you. Thank you for being someone I can always count on and talk to.

Matt, thank you so much for all of your guidance and support the past two semesters. It is really amazing how much work you balance, and how much time you give to us. You are a true role model and someone I look up to.

To everyone else who I didn’t mention by name, you deserve as big of a thank you and shoutout just as much as the others. Everyone on the paper has contributed to making me the writer and person I am today. What we have is so special, and no one can take that away from us.

ple I have ever met, and it’s so comfortable being around you. I feel like I can just be myself, and not need to put on any kind of persona because you accept all of us for who we are. I think that you don’t give

I hate that I met you in my senior year because I can’t imagine not seeing you every day in the office. But I know you’re going to go kick butt in law school, and I’m so excited to see what your future has in

Saying goodbye to you all is going to be one of the hardest things I do. I’m always here for every single one of you. We are one big family, and I love you all so much. Senior news editor, out.

Email: victoria.hill@ubspectrum.com

Kiana Hodge amy maslin, Victoria Hill, Katie sKoog (left to rigHt)

I wish I would’ve joined sooner

Saying goodbye to one of the best things I’ve experienced during undergrad

an assistant editor.

Making a jump from staff writer to assistant editor in the middle of the semester was tough, but because of the support I received from Grant, Andrew and Anthony, I was able to meet my requirements and stay on top of my school work.

KIANA HODGE NEWS EDITOR

I can’t believe my time at The Spectrum is over.

I remember joining as a staff writer in 2021 during the pandemic and feeling hype because I had a column published on the site.

A year and a half later, I found myself becoming a true journalist and tapping into a side of myself that I never could have imagined.

Two months into being a staff writer, I had the opportunity to work on the Latin American Student Association (LASA) ticketing policy story, which opened eyes to my potential and got me promoted to

After being promoted again to a news editor, I started to take what I do for The Spectrum more seriously. I have learned the most throughout this last semester about what being a journalist is.

I was able to fully step out of my comfort zone, which forced me to become more confident in my abilities.

My writing, public speaking and ability to advocate for myself have all improved in my time here.

I’ve fallen in love with journalism and what it has to offer.

Being exposed to what’s going on in the world and having a chance to communicate that to others sounds simple, but there’s so much more to consider behind the scenes of writing a story that makes this field so enjoyable for me.

I cannot imagine a life without writing, and I am curious to see how I combine law and journalism in the future.

The Spectrum will forever hold a special place in my heart. It became a second home for me, and I met an amazing group of people who I see as family.

I want to thank Matt Parrino, Andrew Lauricella, Grant Ashley and Anthony DeCicco for being patient with me and being good leaders whom I could learn from. Thank you for also making the newsroom a safe space. Allowing everyone to come in and talk to y’all, not always as a boss, but as a friend, really made this experience amazing for me. I was able to open up and make my forever family. I would also like to thank you all for helping me learn how not to take criticism personally and see that it’s meant to make my work the best it can be.

I would also like to thank Victoria Hill for being there for every step of the way. We both worked on the LASA story together, got promoted both times at the same time, and stayed on the news desk

with each other. Professionally, we were always able to work together and collaborate on stories. Victoria, you are an exceptional writer. I remember feeling super anxious at first, wondering if I was contributing as much as I could, but I learned so much from you. I really appreciate you for always checking in with me, showing that you care and want to see me.

The friendships I made here really made a difference.

Thank you Amy for being one of my first “besties” at The Spectrum and for putting a smile on my face everytime I see you.

Thank you Katie for working with me, making me laugh and being someone who brings great energy.

Tenzin, Alex, Meret, Darcy, Emma, Moaz, Jade, A.J., Suha and Kara — thank you for keeping me company in the office and making it a safe space. I will miss everyone on staff!

Email: kiana.hodge@ubspectrum.com

See you later, friends

My love letter to The Spectrum

involved. But why would anyone be interested in what I had to say? I talked myself out of it over and over again.

MERET KELSEY SENIOR ARTS EDITOR

The story of how I arrived at The Spectrum is very corny and lame, but I’m going to tell it anyway.

I’ve never considered myself particularly good at anything except for writing. I’ve tried to be good at other things — some of my attempted hobbies include playing guitar, filmmaking, cooking, baking, knitting, making jewelry and photography — but nothing felt as natural as writing.

When my parents, friends and teachers encouraged me to pursue it, I brushed them off. I was not a writer. Writers are cool and interesting and have something unique to offer the world. I never felt that way.

By the time I got to college, I had almost entirely let go of that dream.

I spent my first two-and-a-half years at UB sure I would never try to write again. I knew about The Spectrum, and in the back of my mind I desperately wanted to get

My junior year, over winter break, I read a collection of essays by one of my personal heroes, Joan Didion. That collection included the piece “Why I Write.” Something she said in that essay resonated with me so deeply that I wouldn’t be where I am today had I not read it. In a self-effacing passage about her tumultuous postgraduate life, she wrote this:

“I knew that I was no legitimate resident in any world of ideas. I knew I couldn’t think. All I knew then was what I couldn’t do. All I knew then was what I wasn’t, and it took me some years to discover what I was. Which was a writer.”

I am by no means comparing myself to icon and legend Joan Didion, who is a better journalist than I will ever be. But she gave me the wakeup call I needed. Maybe I should give writing another shot. I — no joke — immediately opened my laptop and enrolled in The Spectrum class, ENG394.

My first semester as a staff writer was hard. I considered resigning the course a few times. I don’t think I ever spoke in class, except to timidly pitch my lame ideas to my editors (shoutout Kara Anderson and Alex Falter). I wrote some mediocre stories that never got published. But I saw

it through, and applied to be an editor anyway.

I didn’t know it at the time, but that decision would end up being one of the best I’ve ever made.

At my first editors’ meeting, I was so nervous that I thought I was gonna throw up. But as I pitched my first story, Anthony, Grant and Andrew were so encouraging that I immediately knew I was welcome on staff.

That first story ended up making the front page of the issue, and the “Big Three” led a round of applause for me at the next meeting. It sounds silly, but I will always remember how proud I felt in that moment. I had never gotten that level of appreciation for something I had written.

To be brutally honest, I don’t know if I would have survived my senior year if it weren’t for The Spectrum

The past two semesters have not been easy on my mental health. I went through a breakup so hard I barely left my room for a month. My car was stolen from right outside my apartment. I lost friends and jobs. I was so broke my card declined on a single spicy potato taco at Taco Bell (for the uninitiated: it’s literally $1).

I had so many days when I didn’t want to get out of bed in the morning, and sometimes I didn’t. But even when I didn’t have

it in me to go to class or do my homework (I hope my parents aren’t reading this), I did everything in my power to make it to the office at 3 p.m. on Mondays.

The Spectrum gave me something to be proud of when it felt like I was failing at everything else.

I’m not gonna go down the list and thank everyone individually because I will cry too much, but you guys know who you are. Even if we literally never spoke, you made my life a little better.

For the returning staff and my fellow departing editors: you are the most talented and hardworking people I know, and I absolutely cannot wait to see what you accomplish. I hope to keep you all in my life somehow.

Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, everyone at The Spectrum, for making me feel like my words had value. For making me feel like a writer.

I’m so proud to know all of you, and I’m definitely not crying right now.

This column is quickly approaching Alex Novak levels of verbosity, so I am going to sign off.

Goodbye for now!

P.S. To my successors on the arts desk: please take care of my elephant plushie.

Email: meret.kelsey@ubspectrum.com

Kiana Hodge (left), Victoria Hill (rigHt)

Kara anderson alex noVaK, Meret Kelsey (left to rigHt)

My final, but not first, goodbye

I don’t love journalism, but I really love The Spectrum

of them my closest friends.

I joined The Spectrum at a weird time for me. The pandemic still had its claws deep in our lives. I was drifting through school without any real anchor.

KARA ANDERSON SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

At my last end-of-the year picnic with The Spectrum, I was given the stunning paper plate award, “Least likely to be a journalist.”

It’s a bit of an inside joke for the staff and me.

I started as a staff writer on the arts desk and eventually became the senior arts editor — and if I do say so myself, I was pretty good at it.

But I don’t like journalism. I really don’t — not writing for journalism, anyway.

I have one person to credit for roping me into this world of reporting: former managing editor Justin Weiss.

If anyone has ever met Justin, you know he’s about the best person in the world. Even after graduating, he remembered to wish me a Happy Lana del Rey Album Drop Day. He’s impossible to say “no” to.

So when I finished ENG 394, a course taken purely for honors credit, and Justin asked me to become an assistant editor, well, there was really only one option for me.

Now, I’m so grateful I told him “yes” — if not for the writing experience, then the incredible and talented people I’ve had the fortune of meeting. I consider some

Now, I couldn’t imagine my college years without it. Even when I tried to get away, I couldn’t quite sever myself from this production. I transitioned from senior arts editor to social media coordinator just to remain close. (Thank you Grant and Anthony for convincing me to stay on.)

Thank you to the staff that welcomed me on board for being such an open and friendly group. Despite my apprehension and anxiety when I first walked into the office, I found confidence and comfort among you all. I’ll miss you guys, a lot.

Grant — what can I even say here?

You’re one of my best friends and I am so, so excited for you to be the next EIC. You’ve more than deserved it.

From ranking fraternities and sororities on their gayness, to nights at Marcella’s and Jack Rabbit, to accidentally trapping you at my house after a party, my best memories are with you.

I’m sorry for all the s—t I gave you about being late to Spanish class and your tardy assignments. I get it now — punctuality is hard when your life is spread thin. Please try to get some more sleep, though. I won’t stop bothering you about that.

Anthony — you truly are the only person I ever want to be complete trash with. Even after graduation, I’m expecting to share atrocious McDonald’s creations and drunk ciggies with you. No one else understands the value of a garbage lifestyle.

I’m so glad you aren’t and were never

that toxic masculine straight-man I initially thought you were, and I’m sorry for my presumptions in that matter (to be fair, the eighth grade basketball boy style didn’t help).

Thank you for being such a fantastic leader this year. You’re exactly what the office needed.

Andrew — let me first say I’m excited for us to leave The Spectrum and finally pursue our true calling as stay-at-home trophy spouses. Do noon brunch reservations work for you?

In all honesty, out of everyone, you probably deserve a break and bottomless mimosas the most. You truly are the man of everything.

Thank you for doing my job the majority of the semester, and being a steady force amidst all my chaos. On your resume, you definitely deserve the title of social media coordinator far more than me, and everyone should know that.

Moaz — just thank you for putting up with me and my constant and unwarranted antagonizing. I hope you know I am insanely jealous of all that you’re able to do (if there’s a modern renaissance man, it’s you) and cannot wait to see everything you accomplish in the future. Please never change in your generosity and ability to completely light up a room.

Meret — you are the best senior arts editor The Spectrum has had, and I have never been prouder to pass my position on to someone else. Thank you for being as incredible as you are and ensuring that the arts desk continued to thrive when I threw a wrench in it.

Darcy — every time I come into the of-

fice and see you, it puts a smile on my face. I don’t quite remember matching on Tinder with you, but I will cherish every memory since then, from our talks in the office to hanging out in Grant’s apartment. I’m so happy we got to be friends.

Kiana and Victoria — I wish you the most fruitful happy hours in the future and pray neither of you lose your spark of delusion — I know I won’t.

Amy — you were and will always be my lesbian ally in the office. Please make smart choices when drinking (and if you don’t, I better at least hear the updates that come from your shenanigans).

Emma and Katie — you two are some of the coolest people I know. The best conversations always come when either of you are around, and I have both of you to thank for bearing the burden of my oversharing.

Alex — I’m sorry, I can’t say goodbye to you here. Then, I really will cry. I am so, so proud of you. Thank you for listening to me and joining The Spectrum (even if it was a step in my plan to leave the arts desk). I’m so happy we got to share the office this semester and that I got to read and edit your stories. I’m always amazed at how much of you you can keep in them. I love you, and I really hope I get to see more of your writing in the future.

Thank you to everyone who made this time so special. Every member of this staff will always have a piece of my heart that I’m so happy to carry beyond this campus.

Email: kara.anderson@ubspectrum.com

Hayden azzinaro amy maslin, Brandon CoCHi ryan TanTalo (lefT To rigHT)

Tenzin WodHean darCy WinTer (lefT To rigHT)

moaz elazzazi, Kiana Hodge andreW lauriCella, ViCToria Hill, KaTie sKoog mereT Kelsey (lefT To rigHT)

andreW lauriCella, Kara anderson (lefT To rigHT)