I am in a studio sitting in front of a thick fabric green-screen. I imagine the audience whispering and rustling in their living room seats. The cameras blink on, the music plays and quickly the director counts down from five. I am ready for my big moment.

I am sitting behind a desk in an office. I hear the typing and clicking of computer keys with the feeling of creativity all around. The article gets published, the audience becomes satisfied and instantly those words skyrocket. I am eager for feedback.

I am out on a field, covering a story. I speak with eyewitnesses and hear from the affected. The news gets spread, the masses are informed, and suddenly voices are heard. I am proud of shining this light.

It all began in elementary school, my love for the theatre. Theatre was my escape. During my middle school and high school years, I worked on this craft and learned about myself. The arts are important. Being involved in drama and singing has prepared me most for the real world. I wouldn’t be who I am without these experiences and the people I came across. My personality, confidence, and work ethic are the result of my involvement in the arts.

I always thought this was what I would continue in college. I couldn’t see myself doing anything else but acting. After my college application process, I came to the conclusion that I wanted a more predictable future, but I still wanted my heart behind the wheel of the car that was driving me.

When I came to college, I explored many different options and took on every opportunity. I found a new passion that embodied everything I learned in theatre and more. My senses had opened, a light bulb blinked on, and everything became clear. I found a love for writing and television.

There is no better therapy than writing therapy, especially when it is shared with different audiences. Inspiring and affecting an individual with words is the greatest satisfaction.

After getting hired at RU-tv, I can’t see myself doing anything else. I quickly got involved and kept reaching for my dreams. I started in master control in the beginning of the semester. By the end of the year, I was hired as an anchor for our morning news show, “Wake Up Rutgers.” The first taste I got in that studio reassured me that I was on the right path. This is what I was meant to be doing. This is my destiny. This is my purpose.

I have learned that you don’t have to take the obvious route. In high school, you aren’t always exposed to the different roads you can travel along. Most of the time, it is possible to incorporate your many passions into one. Many majors do that. Give yourself time to explore and discover what you really want to do as a career. Don’t worry about figuring it all out immediately; it will fall into place. Having an open mind is the greatest asset.

Journalism and Media Studies was a perfect fit for me. I get to do what I love and am able to apply it in the workforce. The opportunities are endless. I want to keep reaching for my dreams beyond college. I want to share my passion and love with as many people as I can. My voice will be heard. A light will shine. Audience’s lives will be enlightened one article, news story, and broadcast at a time! Keep reaching for the stars! From there, all you can go is up!