Transitions don’t wait for you to catch up—they begin the moment you step into the role.
As I prepare to hang up my hat as Editor in Chief of The Journal and venture into the “real world” this May 1, it feels fitting to revisit my transition into the very role I accepted almost one year ago.
My journey began Feb. 16 of last year when I was elected. Without hesitation, my predecessors began the process of teaching me everything they knew the following day and up until their last moments in the role.
In hindsight, this mirrors a truth about life outside the university bubble—the moment your job begins, so do all your responsibilities. Your contract doesn’t come with a grace period to figure things out. In the real world, transitions are less about preparation and more about execution.
This reality hit home even more profoundly during last year’s AMS Executive election. It was a chaotic season, culminating in Team OAR being elected through a Special Assembly on Feb. 29, 2024—far later than the scheduled election timeline, which typically wraps up a month prior.
While these circumstances weren’t the fault of the current Executives, the delayed election reminds us of how vital seamless and enthusiastic transitions are, which my co-editor and I were lucky to be shown by our predecessors.
Regardless of the conditions, transitions are still expected of you. When second semester hits in your current role, you shouldn’t be itching to get out. Even if you are, don’t show it—you owe it to your successors to be a model of assurance and resilience.
The AMS Constitution is clear in stating the Executive shall be retired as of May 1 of each year. At that time, the Executive Elect shall assume the powers vested in the offices of the Executive. This key word, “assume,” underscores a critical point: come May 1, the baton’s in your hand and the race is yours to run.
Transitioning isn’t about waiting for guidance to magically assist you—it’s about taking charge, owning your role, and stepping up to the plate. Yes, mistakes are inevitable—believe me, my co-editor and I have made our share—but learning from them and moving forward is what matters.
We’ve grown not only as leaders but as stewards of a 151-year-old newspaper and the community it serves.
Here are my two cents about stepping into leadership positions: do learn in your role, but don’t rely on it. You’ll only disservice the individuals you serve and harm your own sanity. Doing so shortchanges your potential and risks letting down those who trusted you to lead. Preparation isn’t just about fulfilling expectations—it’s about suring them—a skill our generation sorely lacks by balancing the bare minimum left and right.
In the “real world,” ability is non-negotiable. If you’re late to an interview, you can’t expect sympathy, no matter how stellar your resume may be. Once hired, there’s no safety net for missed deadlines or unchecked responsibilities. Punctuality, reliability, and professionalism are more than workplace buzzwords—they’re foundational to any successful career and seen before you step into your role.
For those who think “we’re just students” is a for lacklustre effort, consider this: leadership doesn’t run on excuses but rather action. Advocate for your peers, attend that club meeting, take ownership of your role, and always show up—literally and figuratively.
To my successor(s) and all who step into the workforce or positions of responsibility, good luck. Transitions are tough, but that’s what makes them transformative. The best you can do is own the challenge and rise to it. While your time in the spotlight is fleeting, the impact you leave behind is lasting.
Skylar is a fourth-year Political studies student and one of The Journal’s Editors in Chief.
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