As I’m wrapping up my time writing for the Odyssey, I realize now is as good a time as ever to write an article about myself. College, the time that most people use to find themselves, is almost over. Well, I think I have a pretty good understanding of who I am as this transitional period comes to an end, and this article is to share more about myself and what I’ve discovered along the way.

I am a Communication Studies major with two minors in Media Studies and Graphic Arts & Imaging Technology. I will be graduating from Appalachian State University (Go ‘Neers!) in less than a week. Although I don’t know what chapter will be next in my life, I can look back and appreciate where I’ve been.

I was born in Orlando, Florida, where I lived for the first eleven years of my life. After moving to Hickory, North Carolina, I discovered a deeper passion for softball and my dream to play at the collegiate level. This sport has consumed my time and energy and has helped shape my character throughout the past 15 years. Although I wasn’t the superstar on the team, I was thankful to play and compete at the Division I level. The experience showed me that you didn’t have to be a stud on the field to be a leader on the team. One of my favorite articles I’ve read was written by an Alabama softball player about the saying, “the Game knows.” The article addressed the concept of being a role player and how the Game will reward you for how hard you work and how great of a teammate you are even if you don’t step foot on the field. I’d like to believe that my role on the App State softball team inspired other people to continue to work hard and have faith that someone will see your worth one day.

Speaking of faith, I try to make mine a priority. I’d like to think that what I say and do reflects Christ and His word the best that they can. It is important to me that I grow in my faith on a daily basis and that I learn to be content in every circumstance as Philippians 4:11 says. One of my favorite quotes is as follows: “Live your life in such a way that if anyone were to speak badly of you, no one would believe it.” I honestly try to live out my life in this way and make this quote a personal philosophy.

I believe that love can change the world. As far as my personal love life, I am committed to a man named Andrew who has changed my own world. I also believe that relationships must be built from a foundation of support, communication, and trust. Relationships, both friendly and romantic, are how we find our fit in society where our perceptions are constantly changing. A little love goes a long way, so I enjoy spending quality time with the people in my life and spreading love to others through service and small acts that make a big impact.

In addition to these priorities in my life, I also enjoy making time for painting, reading, crafting, taking pictures, working out, and starting new adventures. I love coffee, flowers, autumn, chocolate, and little surprises. One day I hope to travel to each of the fifty states and out of the country. Since I’ve been in college, I’ve realized just how important it is to make time for the things you love. Your wellbeing and life apart from work or school is just as important to your growth and development as an individual. I’ve learned to be present in the moment and celebrate every little victory.

If you ask people who know me, they would say that I’m creative, organized, genuine, reliable, and involved. I want to be known for my compassion for others and the goals that I pursue. I believe my purpose is greater than what I accomplish on paper, and I know that I’m here for a reason that is bigger than myself. It will just take time to discover it.