Dear HerCampus at VCU,
It’s been a true pleasure. When I first joined this organization during my freshman year, I had no idea how transformative it would be for me. I still remember wandering through the SoVo Fair on a crowded, hot August day. A bit overwhelmed, I tried to figure out where I might fit in on a brand new campus. Honestly, I wasn’t really planning to sign up for too much; I mostly just wanted the free stickers.Â
But, then I found the HerCampus table. Something about it – maybe the pink banner, friendly energy, bright smiles, or the feeling of possibly having found kindred spirits – made me stop. I’d always loved writing, but I didn’t expect to find a place for it in college, especially as a pre-med student. Still, I picked up a pen, wrote my name on the interest form, and hoped that maybe I found my outlet.Â
Looking back, that tiny moment ended up shaping so many fond memories of my college experience.
What started as my small interest in writing quickly became a hobby, and then a form of self-care. I was able to reflect, express myself, and better understand the world around me through writing. With each article I published, I grew more confident in my voice and more connected to the community around me. HerCampus became a space where I could be creative, meet people from a diverse array of backgrounds, empower other women, and ultimately be a part of something bigger than myself.Â
Serving as Editor-in-Chief and editorial writer of HerCampus has been an honor. Leading you all has not only allowed me to strengthen my writing, but also gave me the pleasure of inspiring a team of talented, creative women to share their own stories. Watching each of you grow as writers has been incredibly rewarding. I hope you continue to reach others with your stories – in the present and future, near and far.
As I now graduate from VCU and enter medical school, I’m deeply thankful for the perspectives, opportunities, and friendships that HerCampus has brought into my life. This organization has been a memorable and impactful part of my college years, and I genuinely appreciate everything it has given me. HCXO <3
With gratitude,
Serena Goyal