By Sophie Lange, Managing Editor
Sophie Lange Headshot. (Photo Sofia Gutierrez/The Gettysburgian)
Growing up, I always loved writing. It did not matter if it was creative, academic, or otherwise; I simply loved putting words down on paper and being able to tell a story. I have a distinct memory of my fourth-grade English teacher encouraging this passion, and little did she or I know, I would go on to become the Managing Editor of my college’s newspaper.
When I first arrived at Gettysburg, I truly had no idea how this place and the people I would encounter would change me for the better. I had only a vague inclination that I might want to write for The Gettysburgian, and I had no intentions of becoming involved in many of the activities in which I participate today. After all, I was merely a wide-eyed, anxious 18-year-old who thought she would never find her place on campus. Now, I am a senior, preparing to finish my last fall semester here at Gettysburg.
A lot has changed since then. Since joining The Gettysburgian, I have had the privilege of serving as both the News and Features Editor and the Social Media Manager. I stepped out of my comfort zone and pushed the boundaries of what was “safe” and “familiar” as a result of becoming involved with the newspaper, and I will always look back fondly on my time here. Throughout this period of growth, I took risks and worked toward leadership opportunities across campus, becoming not only the Managing Editor but also the philanthropy chair of my sorority, Tri Sigma.
Truly, college is a time of great change in so many ways. I am not the same person I was three years ago—and that familiar experience of change is something that we should all celebrate in our own lives. The Gettysburgian has allowed me to hold onto my love of writing in a way that has given me confidence and meaning in my time here at Gettysburg, allowing me to develop my passions while becoming someone of whom I could be proud.
This issue of The Gettysburgian highlights the changes within our community—from the opening of the Gettysburg Railroad Company to a new club on campus to the West Quad dorm renovations, there are so many exciting changes happening right now.
Yours Truly,
Sophie Lange
This article originally appeared on page 2 of the November 2025 edition of The Gettysburgian’s magazine.
