Talking should come easily to me. But inevitably, it doesn't. As a student who is pursuing their degree in communications, I'm expected to be comfortable when it comes to talking to large crowds and in public settings. I should be extremely extroverted.

But I'm really not.

I still find myself struggling to connect with those around me. I've never been big on drawing attention to myself and being in the spotlight. So, I wallflower and avoid others at all costs.

As a communications major, I feel like it's a requirement to be outgoing and approachable, so I always feel pressured to change my personality and characteristics to fit these specific criteria. There is this aura and vibe that communications majors give off that's so warming and welcoming, and I feel like I'm missing those traits.

Especially in group settings, I'm not much of a leader and would rather follow commands than be giving them. I am easily intimidated and enjoy listening to others, so I'm used to keeping quiet. I just truly don't enjoy stepping out of my comfort zone. It's as if I'm in a little bubble, and I am doing everything in my power to keep it from popping (even if that means avoiding human interactions at all costs).

I've also learned that my personality and willingness to talk changes when I'm surrounded by people I know. If I'm in a class with unfamiliar faces, I am more than likely in the corner of the room keeping my opinions to myself. But if I'm with a group of friends, I am more willing to come out of my shell, happy to participate.

Then there's also networking that needs to be done. In order to find employment and have job security once I graduate, I need to be able to communicate with those who have connections. This is especially hard when it is difficult to put yourself out there.

Most people would say to switch my degree to something that is more individualistic and lacks teamwork, but I'm absolutely in love with my major and wouldn't switch it for the world. So how do I fix this?

I've been learning and developing ways to put myself out there and be more outgoing. Whether it's volunteering myself in class or talking in front of a group of people, I've become more comfortable with socializing and speaking up. I have found that the more I practice and come forward with ideas, the more I start to enjoy myself.

Sometimes it can be frightening to put yourself out there, but I've found that it's always worth it in the end. With this degree, I have come across some remarkable people and refuse to give it up just because I'm a bit shy.