It is my pleasure to be an unfamiliar face and probably an unfamiliar name on the Viewpoint page today. Unbeknownst to most of you, I’ve been behind the scenes at Technician for three and a half years now, designing my heart out.

I came to N.C. State intending to become a veterinarian, transferred into communication after a year and a half, and I plan to go back to school to study graphic design.

To the untrained eye, it might seem as though my college career at N.C. State was somewhat counterproductive. But to those of you who’ve been here for a while, I’m sure you’ve figured out that college isn’t all about taking classes, getting good grades and receiving a degree — it’s about the journey and the people and experiences you come across along the way.

Maybe I should’ve forewarned you: I’m sappy by nature.

But honestly, so many of us come to college thinking we know ourselves front and back. We came here with expectations. Some expect to party and flirt. Some expect to ace every course. Some expect to be in every club or organization they qualify for.

If you still have several years left at N.C. State, I’d encourage you to be open — open to new ideas, new people, new activities, new whatever. It’s not as important to have a set course as it is not to miss out on precious viewpoints, friendships and opportunities in general. Don’t hold back — step outside your comfort zone.

I never imagined I’d work at the newspaper, let alone work there for three and a half years. But being open to the prospect not only made my college experience completely fulfilling — it helped me discover my true talent and what I want to do with the rest of my life.

Just as important as designing at Technician has been the amazing people I’ve encountered here in the office. I was so lucky to come in and work under Patrick Clarke — former design editor and my design mentor. Without his encouragement, I never would have stepped foot on the third floor of Witherspoon. He taught me all the basics and showed me the ropes.

Jake and Ben — thanks for all your wisdom, then and now. Your opinions mean more to all of us than you could ever know!

Tyler, Tanner, Josh and Clark — goofing off with working with you all for three and a half years couldn’t have been more fun.

Laura, Saja, Helen, Maggie, Alison and all of my Technician girlfriends — thanks for all the laughs, hugs and general silliness that made the endless hours up here so painless.

And John — let’s face it: without Technician we wouldn’t be spending our one and a half year anniversary on Christmas Eve.

I can confidently say “I’m sorry” to anyone who doesn’t know these folks — they’re some of the most intelligent, kind and genuine people I’ve come across in my four and a half years here at State.

I’d also like to apologize to all the designers who worked under me over the years. I’m sure my perfectionism got annoying at times.

Although I usually spent more time in the office than I did in class or at home, I rarely regretted it. How many of you can honestly say you love your job? That’s what I thought.

So, readers, the lesson is this: Dare to defer from your preconceived path. I guarantee you it will lead you somewhere great.

And to my beloved Technician family: In the immortal words of the Governator, “I’ll be back.”

If you want to say thanks to Katie e-mail viewpoint@technicianonline.com.