Parting shots: Brian Stryker

Every day, about 25,000 people thumb through 14,000 copies of The Daily. Another 6,000 or so browse it online. It's still a bit surreal to think that for a small time, I was in charge of what those 30,000-plus people read.

I'm glad I took that step inside the office as a freshman and became the hardest-working awful photographer the paper had on staff. I had an awe of the place at the time that I've never really lost; now my awe, instead of being for the wise, old bosses, is for the young, enthusiastic staff that is going to keep this paper churning out great stories after I'm gone. Putting out a newspaper five days a week while going to college is tough business, and this school is lucky to have some of the young people at The Daily with the drive and talent to do so.

Through my quarters at the paper -- mostly this one -- I've learned a lot about myself. I'm a PR man for the College Republicans, and I'm an ultra-liberal. I'm anti-Greek, and I'm way too pro-Greek. I don't care about diversity, and I cover diversity excessively. Also, I think bone-marrow transplants are foolish and unnecessary. That last revelation came as a big shock, as my uncle survives today only because of my mother's bone marrow.

Thanks, readers, for letting me know what I'm all about.

As editorinchief, you are only as good as your staff. They really deserve the praise -- or the blame -- for the paper, as they are the ones making it every day. Ingrid, your eye for detail has caught so many mistakes I missed. The paper and the school are in your debt. Shaun and Raven have made the paper look consistently great. And all of the sub-editors have performed fantastically. Randy has, besides putting together a balanced news section, bailed me out more than a few times during last-minute crises.

Photography is what got me into this paper, and it's one of the things that set our paper apart from most. Reed's done a great job taking over from where I left the department and demanding quality pictures.

I owe all I know about photography and journalism to those at The Daily who have taught me. Chris Jordan and Joe Nicholson, you helped me so much, and you continue to be there as friends and mentors. Dylan Lehrke, I learned what it is to be a good editor in chief when I worked as your photo editor. Jimmy So, if this reaches you in Hong Kong, I've learned more about journalism, and life, from you than anyone.

Christina, few people I've met share your love and grasp of good in-depth writing. The New Yorker will be beating down your door someday. Ken, it's been great going through school with you since elementary days. You'll be a doctor I'd trust operating on my family.

Brian and Heather, I leave the paper in competent hands. I wish you both all of the stress, success, and enjoyment I have had this quarter. It's back to my Delta Chi family for one last great week. I'll be at Finn's with Martin if you need me.