As kids, we grow up dreaming of being doctors, lawyers, and veterinarians. For me, my dream career has changed so many times I couldn't keep count. I've aspired to be everything from a psychologist to a physical therapist, and it's crazy looking back at how far I've come. Here I am, entering college in three months to earn my Bachelor's in Marine Biology. I never would have guessed that I would be pursuing this career, but here I am!

While I'm insanely excited about my major and future career path, I have definitely received my fair share of criticism for pursuing the career that I am, but regardless, I refuse to give up on my dream. I've heard everything from, "you're not going to make any money doing that, no one will fund your career" to "that's what I wanted to do when I was little but it's really hard so I gave it up." People don't want to pursue their dreams if it means that they have to put in any effort. Therefore, they'll definitely try to discourage your dreams.

So here's to all of the "weird" college majors. The dancers, the musicians who want to teach children a beautiful skill, the aspiring journalists and the writer who wants to share her stories with the world. We're dreamers, creators, and visionaries who are determined to be successful while doing what we love.

I applaud you if you're an aspiring nurse or teacher, because our world needs you and we honestly need more brave people like you. But the different majors, the ones that take guts to pursue because of the odds stacked against you, those are worth fighting for.

So to the girl in the auditorium at 2:00 a.m. rehearsing or the boy up in his dorm writing late into the night, please don't give up. You don't have to settle for something you don't love just to make a living. Your dreams are valid, and with enough hard work and just a little luck, you will succeed in the end.