Since starting college, I have been in many situations that have made me uncomfortable.
On the first day of my first journalism course, my classmates and I were sent out immediately into the wild to find a story and interview at least three strangers. I remember thinking, "Is this really for me?"
However, looking back now as my graduation nears, that was a crucial moment for my later successes in college. I now am comfortable grabbing a man on the street and interviewing him on any subject — something I never expected to be so comfortable doing.
Moments like these have come weekly and sometimes daily throughout the last four years. It was tough at times, some more than others, but I have always persevered. Without being forced to go out of my comfort zone so often, I'm not sure I would be where I am today — covering major sporting events like the Peach Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, and the NCAA Tournament, building a portfolio of over 20 published clips in all categories and scoring four internships throughout my collegiate career. Without being pushed beyond what I thought my boundaries were, I may not have stayed in journalism at all.
This is one of the most important, if not the most important, lessons I've learned in not only college but life. Going out of my comfort zone has never led to something negative in my life. It has always opened more doors for me, and every time, I become more confident in myself.
For those starting college, a new career or whatever other milestones in life, I encourage you to push past your boundaries. You may not realize how far you can reach right now, but you won't know unless you try. After all, we have nothing to lose.
