I sat around for quite some time thinking about what I wanted to write for my last column as the State News Beer Gal.

When I was offered the opportunity to write the beer column, I had no idea what a huge impact it would have on my life. I had never written professionally before and was not sure how well I would do. The first article I wrote was, by far, the hardest. I can remember how nervous and truly excited I was to see my name in print.

I could not imagine at the time how my articles would affect people. Some people hated my columns, while others raved. I really enjoyed hearing both. It was fun to get people stirred up, both positively and negatively. I never would have thought people would enjoy something I wrote so much that they would actually tape it to their doors for all to see.

Going to the bar as "the Beer Gal" also was an experience I was not prepared for. I remember the first time I was recognized by someone. That person actually was a friend of a friend and referred to me as an "MSU Icon."

I personally would not go that far by any means, but I was excited to see someone so excited about seeing me. Some people actually would parade me around the bar and introduce me to all of their friends and sometimes even complete strangers.

My name has been changed permanently from "Angela" to "Beer Gal" - usually said in a deep, low-toned voice. When I walked into class each day, I could hear it in the background, and it makes me laugh every time.

The biggest change was how this column changed my career path. Recruiters were more interested in my beer knowledge than my actual credentials - something I did not expect.

In a few weeks, I embark on a journey as a manager at New Holland Brewing Company.

All in all, I tried really hard to show you the world of beer outside of the American Pilsner. Michigan is an amazing state to live in when it comes to microbreweries. We have so many brewers who take pride in what they do and offer amazing styles of beer, along with a vast amount of knowledge. Support these people and the work they do.

A great way to support these brewers is to attend one of the greatest summer beer events to take place in Michigan. Mark your calendars for July 24, 2004, for the seventh annual Michigan Brewers Guild, held at Frog Island Park, Historic Depot Town in Ypsilanti. If you never have heard of a guild, it is the perfect opportunity to try new beers.

Last year was my first guild, and I had a blast. There were 30 Michigan breweries present and more than 120 different beers to sample. This year, it is expected to be bigger and better. It is a really cool event to attend. Go to www.michiganbrewersguild.org for more information.

Thank you to everyone who made this possible for me. The State News, you the reader and my professors all have contributed to one of the best experiences of my life.

Angela Mitchell is a hospitality business senior. E-mail her at mitch314@msu.edu.