Featured Image: Jerrianna ‘JJ’ Somerville on Nov. 2, 2025. | (Pacer Photo / Darby Self)
Well, folks. The time has officially come to bid my farewell—not technically, since I haven’t walked across the grand stage of the Elam Center yet. However, I digress. I am terrible at goodbyes and it doesn’t quite help that The Pacer has been half of my identity since the start of my freshman year. I will try to keep this as brief as possible so you, the readers, can browse the rest of our fantastic last print issue of the semester. Fair warning, though: I studied under the mentorship of Will Spencer, where word counts are non-existent.
When I arrived at the University of Tennessee at Martin in the fall of 2022, I instantly knew that I wanted to get involved in anything writing-related. I have my 10th-grade English teacher and journalism advisor, Ms. Fletcher, to thank for that. I only ever dealt with writing for my high school’s magazine and a brief stint on Wattpad, so when discovering the chaotic world that is The Pacer, which was led by the beloved short, long-haired, Fleetwood Mac-loving Ms. Tomi McCutchen, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I had never heard of AP Style guidelines, which is the bane of my existence—but hey, at least I knew InDesign!
During the first month of being employed here, I literally hit the ground running with whatever Ms. Tomi or the former executive editor, Kaylee Michon, assigned me to do. It wasn’t until the next semester that I would find myself in the cinematic and creative landscape that is Arts and Entertainment, led by the iconic Will Spencer. Getting to work alongside him as his assistant and learn the fundamentals of the section was truly an honor. When he graduated in 2023, I panicked. It was time for me to step into his shoes and try to fill the void he left. It was challenging at first because I didn’t see myself as a leader or a great enough writer like he was. However, becoming a PEP leader during that same year taught me that leadership is not only about how well you can carry yourself professionally, but also how effectively you can connect with others and make a lasting impression.
I never saw myself as an extrovert, as I have always been shy growing up; but working at The Pacer and becoming a PEP leader made me the loudest person in a room. These positions brought me out of my shell and shaped me into the person I am today. The Pacer also brought a staff who became my second family. I will miss the print layout nights where the staff is fighting sleep or Adobe software. I will miss handing out newspapers at Quad City. I will miss my daily chats in the Pacer office with Aubrey as they were the highlight of my Mondays and Wednesdays, the disorderly (I don’t know how to conduct a meeting properly) pitch meetings with my outstanding writers and the sandwich that Dr. Plotner orders from Vantage.
As I wrap up my senior farewell, I would like to acknowledge and thank some people that made my time at UT Martin worthwhile.
First, I would like to thank my family for their love and support. There were times that I wanted to give up and go live in a RV, but their FaceTime calls and visits kept me going.
Dr. Nanney and Mr. Freed, thank you for guiding and advising me throughout my three years here. I wouldn’t be graduating this soon if it wasn’t for you two—teaching me how to navigate the confusing concept that is a flight plan.
To all of my GENS students and the First Year Experience Program, it was an honor to be your PEP leader, and I would like to thank the Mass Media and Strategic Communication department for trusting me to fulfill the role for almost three years. Meeting and connecting with you all brought so much joy to my life. I am so proud of the young adults you have grown to become. Continue to soar and make your mark on not only this campus, but in the world.
Dr. Plotner, although this is your first semester with the Pacer and I was highly intimidated by you at the start, you took a chance on the staff and shaped us for the better. I admire your drive and resilience; I wish I had half of that! I can’t wait to see what else you have in store for The Pacer as it is in good hands.
Adrianna’, my Alpha Kappa Psi forever brother and one of my best friends, I loved working alongside you and growing such a strong bond within shared interests. Continue to accomplish your dreams and never doubt yourself and your capabilities!
My daughter, Paulena, who may not be here physically yet, but her karate kicks say otherwise! I hope that one day you think your mama is cool.
Last but certainly not least, Ms. Tomi, or as I like to call her, “Tomika”, thank you for seeing something in me. Thank you for showing me that my voice does matter. Your guidance, endless support and love made me a better writer. All of the years and sacrifice you put into The Pacer to make it worth something never went unnoticed. You are the heart and soul of The Pacer, along with the incredible staff.
If I haven’t said anything of value yet, then I would like to leave with this: to any student or person reading, never be afraid to be yourself, unapologetically. Chase your wildest dreams, but don’t lose sight of who you are as a person. Holla!
