(May 5, 2026) Daily Collegian alumni have strong memories of their Collegian days – and nights. Many of us also carry sincere appreciation of how our Collegian experiences shaped us and laid the foundations for our futures. As alumni, we’re looking back, while the 2026 Collegian alums are wondering what lies ahead and feeling the mixed emotions of anxiety, joy, sadness and “Hey, world! Here I come!”
They shared their thoughts in Senior Columns published on the Collegian website. Take a look at some of the editors’ pieces:
Amy Schafer, Business Editor – “To my knowledge, no one had ever served as both editor-in-chief and business manager. Was I crazy? Yes, but that turned out to be a good thing.”
Mercedes Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief – “Freshman year me would be extremely proud of the young woman and the journalist I have become.”
Rachael Keller, News Editor – “The Collegian gave me my confidence, assurance in my career and, most importantly, a family.”
Avery Hill, Football Editor – “To the best student newspaper in the country, thank you and goodbye.”
Lyle Alenstein, Wrestling Editor – “The Collegian has poured so much into me with all these opportunities and awesome people I’ve met.”
Nadya Solometo, Lifestyle Editor – “Even though each year brought new challenges and changes, the Collegian was always a constant bright spot.”
Evan Smith, Newsletter Editor – “The Daily Collegian helped me discover who I truly want to be.”
Alex Osman, Digital Managing Editor – “After five years as a multimedia candidate, videographer, multi editor, DME, d-teamer and photographer, thank you, The Daily Collegian.”
Isabella Viteri, Visual Editor – “I changed my major to advertising, found my place in The Daily Collegian and leaned into the communities that made Penn State feel like home.”
We wish all graduating Collegian staffers the very best in the days and decades to come!
(In the photo: Collegian staff are at the Altoona Popeyes after the final press run for the 2025-26 school year.)
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