Contrast Unveiled!

This year’s issue of Contrast!

On Thursday, after weeks of hard work and planning, my co-editor Jimmy and I unveiled the 2015 issue of Contrast Literary Magazine, McDaniel’s annual student lit mag publication.

It was a thrill to see everything come together! Not only had we put a lot of effort into the magazine — which turned out beautifully — and getting it published, but we also spent a lot of time organizing and promoting the event. We had to reserve space and equipment, order food, create and hang flyers, and get the word out on social media. Since a significant portion of the event is devoted to students reading their newly published pieces, we also had to make sure we had students who were willing to read to our audience.

When I got to the event space on Thursday, all of the chairs and food were set up, and the microphone and podium were set up soon after. All I had to do was put copies of the magazine around the room after having transported two boxes of them to the space that morning.

We probably had about 30 people show up to the event, and many of them came early, so it was fortunate that my co-editor and I had gotten there to set up before them. People loved the magazines and we all had the chance to hear some excellent readings of excellent writings by excellent authors.

I loved getting to hear everyone read, but I had a couple of other favorites from the event too. I loved being able to give our club advisor, who is also my academic advisor, a beautiful potted Gerbera daisy as a token of my thanks. And even more exciting was the fact that my alumni friends Nick and Charles, who were co-editors of Contrast two years ago, came to the unveiling. I think it speaks to what a wonderful publication and organization Contrast is that previous editors want to come back to McDaniel to support it.

Overall, the event was a success, and while I’m glad that all of the work leading up to the unveiling was successful, I’m kind of sad that it’s over. Between creating a beautiful book and planning a successful event, I have much to be proud of. Being a member of Contrast for four years and an editor this year has been a rewarding experience that I would never trade.