With my final Shoofly Launch Party on the way, I felt the need to write this. I’ve been a part of Shoofly since 2014, my freshman year here at KU. Through Shoofly, I learned so much and met so many amazing people. I’ve seen the smiles on people’s faces as they read their work at the readings and launch party. I’ve seen other members grow and come into their own.
Through Shoofly, I learned that I like working on a publication almost as much as I like writing for it. I learned leadership skills, task delegation, critical thinking skills, and so much more. It taught me what a classroom couldn’t teach me.
When I started working with Shoofly, I didn’t think I would care so much about it. I saw it as a resume builder at the time, and it is, but I consider this to be my introduction to the field I love. Knowing that I helped bring this together, that I had a hand in its conception for four years, is an amazing feeling. I moved up from just being a member to being in a leadership role for the club when I was a sophomore and that was a change. I hadn’t expected to be put in that kind of a role and it took me some time to get used to the responsibility.
But I did it.
The people I’ve worked with and make connections with have all taught me that the good outweighs the bad. There are those that are so eager to help out no matter what their job entitles. They want to see the publication come to light just as much as I do. They’re the ones that I know will keep the book going for years to come.
One of the best things I’ve learned is to show your passion. Showing passion in something that you’re so proud of (even through all the stress from the object of your passion) is what keeps the interest. It’s what gets other people interested in your work.
So, thank you, Shoofly. Thank you for being a major part of my undergraduate experience and thank you for everything you’ve taught me.