Born and bred in New Jersey to two caring parents, I craved a larger sense of irregularity when it came time for college. After slipping on ice walking to a friend’s house to discuss which university I should go to, I instead walked inside proclaiming my decision to head to Florida.

This stage of my education has shaped me in ways that were once unimaginable. I could never have guessed how much care my professors would have for me or that the surplus of information given to me would become so useful.

Because of this newfound courage set by the instructors before me, along with the knowledge accompanied by their teachings, I gained my first journalism internship at CNN in New York City. Many would believe that this would decide my fate of being a liberal, but I believe I am too young to decide this label.

I do lean to the left in my general beliefs of equality for everyone and a more encompassing society, but I don’t side with everything the party stands for, including the vehement bashing of the other side of the debate. I don’t believe in closeminded arguments, I stand for conversational debates where both sides can take something from the other.

When I am not in school or working, I like to spend time outdoors and appreciating the arts. In new cities, I enjoy attending museums and seeing live shows. One of my absolute favorite past times is reading. I enjoy fiction, autobiographies, and am a sucker for a cheesy love story from time-to-time.

I recently discovered my love for Indian food, specifically any vegetarian option in a cashew sauce. I also greatly enjoy any variation of Hispanic or Latin food - black beans are one of my favorite foods.

After college, I dream of moving to New York City and living in Brooklyn. It’s far enough away from the bustling streets but close enough to my hopeful, future job.

One of the things I love most about this city is the people, contrary to many people’s popular beliefs. I appreciate how everyone has a sense of sureness about themselves accompanied with the fire inside them to allow them to reach their goals. It inspires me every day and reminds me to continue pushing forward.

Because of the melting pot that is the metropolitan area, you will find many differing opinions, all of which I believe are the backbone of this country.

In recent years, society has become too politically correct and afraid to get their feelings hurt. I believe a little heat from an argument can allow more passion, not hate for the other side.

I believe that being accepting of varying sexes, genders, races, and orientations is crucial for moving ahead. But I don’t believe that people should feel afraid to share their opinions by the fear of being attacked. Unless what that person is saying is inhumane, they should be allowed to share their mind. Listening to your opponent can allow for new understanding as long as we allow that conversation to be had.

Though I am white, I feel a great need to add to the conversation set forth by minorities. I want to further their voices in any way I can and I am willing to make any sacrifice on their behalf.

One of the things I care very deeply about is the future generations of our society. I want the children of this country to grow up to be strong, well-educated individuals. I don’t want to see a large gap between privilege and poverty, but a give and take from both sides.

I believe that women are granted less power than they deserve. But I would like to state that I don’t believe females are superior to males, rather they are equals. Gender shouldn’t choose a person’s job in a workplace, but rather their intellect and experience.

During my time in Central Florida, I’ve grown to understand the importance of community, especially with young professionals. Attending the events these people have set forth to showcase their work in businesses that need the traffic is inspiring. It reminds me to look on the outside ring of the city, not just in the well-established restaurants.

After everything that has occurred, I see the need to work on our government to have it reflect the voices of the people, the majority. I’ve seen too often the choices that are being made are for the benefit of the people sitting in the good seats, not for the welfare of this country.

I try to attend church almost every Sunday. After some health issues with my family, I found comfort in a higher power. But just because I believe there is one does not mean I think everyone should, too.

In my future writing, I don’t want to set my hopes on a specific beat, but I hope that with whatever I do, I am giving justice to the people who need it most. I don’t want to write about topics in a laisser-faire manner, I want to always remain passionate about journalism.

After all is said and done, I believe that I’ve made a good life for myself considering everything I have chosen to do. I will continue to use my better judgment and serve the people who need me most in a way that I care deeply about. In the end, it’s about who you are and what you’ve done, not what you should have done instead.