The furthest I have gone out of my comfort zone is a step or two. I would describe my comfort zone as the California Valley, my best friend, the thought that my family is less than a couple hours away, not doing anything too extreme, ever. Sure, coming to college, moving out of the house, and leading the life of an independent young adult are all accomplishments, but I have never really left my comfort zone. Why? Because I have never traveled out of state, I have never gone out of my way to talk to someone, I have never delved in "real culture." Overall, there are many things I have not even tried to attempt because my comfort zone was too cozy and familiar and I was scared of the unknown.

One of my current favorite quotes says, "There's no growth in your comfort zone," and I have been discovering how true this is. All this time I have been playing it safe, taking some leadership and club positions at my campus, doing well in my classes, and feeling totally comfortable and happy this way. However, recently I gave myself a much-needed pep talk to stop thinking through things so much to the point that I scare myself. So, I applied to study and intern across the country, in Washington D.C. and much to my surprise, I got accepted and will actually be spending a semester there spending time with people I don't know in a state am not at all familiar with. I have gained more self-esteem and courage just knowing that I am slowly moving out of my comfort zone that has been my home for the last 19 years.

So stop underestimating yourself and start being comfortable with being uncomfortable. It's the only way to grow as a professional, a student, and a person as a whole. Getting yourself into new situations allows you to network, have fun, and have once-in-a-lifetime experiences. So apply to study abroad, pursue the job of your dreams, talk to your crush, because you never know what wonderful experiences will result when you abandon your comfort zone.