LETTER FROM THE EDITOR IN CHIEF: HELLO

Hi Friends!

I would like to introduce myself. My name is Melanie Hamner. I have been writing for Her Campus ASU since my sophomore year, now going into my fourth and final year of university!! I am majoring in Journalism with an emphasis on Public Relations. I have had a  passion for photography and writing ever since I was a child. Many would say, I’m a storyteller at heart. My purpose has always been to tell someone’s story, whether it is through my photos or writing.  

Growing up as an only child, I was surrounded by my large family: my parents, my grandparents, my aunts, uncles, cousins, and best friends. They have always supported me through thick and thin. I was taught to be independent and never rely on anyone. But to always remember that at the end of the day, know they will always be there for me. I was taught to face my fears head-on and don’t stop and wait for something to happen. That support is something I will forever be grateful for. 

That’s also what Her Campus ASU is to me, they are my second family. It will always be a safe place for anyone. It was for me during my darkest of times. I joined Her Campus ASU around the same time as my first “breakup”.  I had little to no experience in writing and I only knew one of the members prior to joining. Everyone took me in with warm and loving arms. They’ve helped me and never judged me. I was able to grow as a human, but also as a writer. 

During my junior year, was when my first REAL breakup happened. To say the very least, I was broken, but the team of amazing women helped me through it all. I was taught to finally put my mental health first. The support is something I will never forget. 

For those of you who are thinking of joining this amazing team: I will do my absolute best to give you the support as a friend, a colleague, and your president. I will encourage you to grow as a writer or editor and I will make sure to get you out of your comfort zone. I will always support you no matter what you face. 

To my current HC ASU lovelies: I will continue to be there for you, listen to your ideas, help your writing skills improve, and make sure this year is the best one yet. 

To Daria: The former editor-in-chief. Thank you. You have truly prepared me for this next big step, as a member, and now President. I remember the day you asked me over zoom, I was so excited but nervous that I would never be ready. As the school year is now here, I know that I am. You’ve taught me to always listen to my mental health before anyone, to not stress over the tiny things, and most importantly, just be myself. 

As the new editor-in-chief, I promise to anyone who is a part of Her Campus ASU, this club will be a place for strong independent women and non-binary friends. We will always support you no matter who you are. I promise to encourage you to only ever be the best version of yourself. 

With that being said, 

I can’t wait to see what this year has in store for us. 

Love you all always, 

Melanie xx

Fun Facts about Mel: 

Favorite Color: Red

Pets: a dog named Finnegan 

Roommates: 3 of them!!! 

Favorite Sport: Baseball 

Favorite Song: “Where’s my love” by SYML or “Turning Page” 

Go-To- Meal: Mac & Cheese or Quesadilla w/ Sour Cream 

Single or Taken: I have my eye on someone ;)

Spotify or Apple Music: Spotify 

Favorite Movie: Safe Haven

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