During my freshman year in college, I knew that I wanted to get into video game journalism. Hell, I knew that in high school. With how competitive the industry is, I knew I had to get my foot in the door early. I spent night after night researching different outlets, getting in touch with them, and seeing if they’d be willing to let me write for them in the smallest capacity. Eventually, I was lucky enough to come aboard as an intern for Shacknews in early 2017. That opportunity greatly altered the trajectory of my life.
Asif took a huge chance on me, and that chance allowed me to live out the career I’d always dreamed of. I got to professionally cover the video game industry - writing up news, interviewing developers, and reviewing games. I got to go to E3 (three times!), a lifelong dream of mine. I got to meet writers and creators that I spent years looking up to. Got to be there in-person for crazy reveals and gameplay debuts. It was legitimately a dream come true!
In 2020, I joined Shacknews full-time after graduating college. I was able to quit my job at Target, work as a video game journalist full-time, and support myself. How lucky was I to have a full-time gig lined up after college, during a global pandemic no less? It was awesome getting to step into a larger role at the website I’d grown to love.
I like to think that I’m a far better writer and journalist than when I arrived at Shacknews, and that’s all thanks to the amazing people that I’ve gotten to work with during my time here. Asif, Steve, Keefer, Ozzie, David, BV, Josh, Charles, Crabs, Greg, TJ, Sam, Blake, Bill, Denny, Rod, and Morgan. I’m so lucky to have called these people my coworkers. I don’t think I would have gotten to where I am without their guidance and mentorship.
After all of that reflecting, it’s time to look forward. Today is my last day at Shacknews. I’ll be out of the gaming industry, but still doing journalism work. I won’t do any self-promo here, but you can keep up with my shenanigans over on Twitter.
This won’t be the last you see of me here. I genuinely enjoy sharing my movie reviews here on Cortex, and plan to continue doing so (what’s up dognose!). Besides, if these guys ever want me for an E7 panel or something, all they have to do is make the call. The Shack has opened so many doors for me, and it’s time for me to walk through one and do something new. Thank you for taking a chance on me. See you later, Shacknews.
