My Story
Posted on January 1, 2011What would you do, if you knew you could not fail?
In December of 2010, I graduated from the University of Maryland with a degree in Broadcast Journalism, and a focus in Family Science. During my three and a half years of college, I was fortunate enough to learn from experienced Journalists, refine my skills with the equipment and resources utilized by professional news organizations, and intern with employers that encourage hands-on experience.
After taking a course about international social stratification my freshmen year, I was certain that I would join the Peace Corps once I graduated. This changed sophomore year when I decided that reporting or anchoring nightly news might be my calling. Then, after a short trip to Sydney during junior year, I had my heart set on returning to find a job and live by the beach. As a senior I found myself intrigued by cinematography and documentary films, particularly those focused on bringing about positive change to people’s lives.
Call me cheesy, cliché or your adjective of choice, but I always told my dad that that I think I’m meant to do something meaningful or make a difference. Today that might be as simple as helping a friend, but I hope that one day it will be something on a much grander scale.
Although I wake some days feeling anxious, hesitant and uncertain about my future, I continue to feel excited and intrigued by the unknown.
I expect much trial and error, surprise and disappointment, and a wide range of contrasting emotions. But I learned at a young age, after realizing that I wasn’t going to grow up to be a Disney Princess or the next Madonna, that it’s acceptable to feel uncertain, change your future plans numerous times, and take risks.
So for now, when it comes to choosing a career, I remain in the stage of uncertainty. But despite all of the raised eyebrows, looks of worry and disapproval, and speeches I receive about the importance of deciding sooner rather than later–I see no sense in worrying about the unknown. Trust me when I say that I’m well aware of the significance of timing and taking advantage of valuable opportunities as they are few and far between. At the same time though, I believe that the risks posed by taking chances often pale in comparison to the possible rewards.
When I was younger and my dad was feeling apprehensive I would tell him to “live a little.” But now, as I begin this new phase of my life, I ask why live a little, when you could live a lot?
Smile often,
♥ Rebecca
Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you anywhere. – Albert Einstein
Sydney, Australia
When are you coming to Texas to live a lot? Everything is bigger in Texas you know.
28.07.2011 11:44