This is our ninth issue of the year, and while we've passed our halfway mark of the semester and of publication, now is a better time than any to reflect on the work we've done so far this semester. This period has been a time of tremendous growth and learning. While we've hired many returning staff, we've also hired a large group of eager first-years to fill positions as reporters, columnists, photographers, illustrators, production and advertising associates. Although this is my seventh semester working for The Pioneer, I still have a lot to learn with my position. During my short time as editor-in-chief, I hope to do a lot of things that maintain the high quality standards that have been set by editors-in-chief before me, while also forging new avenues.