Goodbye College, Hello To The Rest Of My Life

It's absolutely crazy to think in 5 short weeks I will graduate from Central Michigan University.
It's been a great run, but I'm ready to move on.

I remember moving up to Mount Pleasant as a Freshman with one dream, and that was to be a news reporter. Throughout my time in college, I pushed myself to become the best photographer, editor, and storyteller that I could be. I got involved my freshman year with Alliance for Women in Media, which gave me the opportunity to network with both my colleagues and professionals in the industry. In addition, I got involved with News Central 34, Central's award-winning, on-campus news station.

Below is a picture with me and some members from Alliance for Women in Media in 2012.

After my freshman year, I wanted to get a head start on things, so I decided to go ahead and get my first internship. I decided to take an internship in my hometown called City of Holland TV. There, I was able to direct, produce and report.

I think passion and dedication speaks volumes in the broadcasting industry. If you're willing to push yourself and go the extra mile, more times than not, you will make it.

After that internship, I headed into my Sophomore year wanting to set myself a part from others even more, so I decided to study abroad in Singapore for 5.5 months. Overseas, I took classes on newspaper writing, film directing, and on-air television presence. I also took a course in Chinese.

(Below is a picture of me directing a short film we called "Neck").

That summer, I spent my time interning at Fox 2 News in Detroit, which was an experience that I will never forget. (Pictured below)

Before starting my summer internship with HOMTV, I continued to heavily involve myself in the extra-curriculars at CMU. I got involved in a sorority, I reported and anchored for News Central 34, and I started reporting for CMU athletics.

Yes, I'll miss the tailgates, staying up all night to study, hanging out with my sorority sisters, and all of the other opportunities college has provided me with, but I have to remember that college is just a stepping stone, helping me prepare for my real life.

I have some big changes heading my way, and I can't wait to embrace them. I've worked too hard and too long to give up on my dreams, and I can't wait to put all of this hard work at college to work at my first big girl job.

Thanks CMU for the absolutely incredible memories!
Coming to CMU was hands down the best decision of my life. The teachers I've had, the people I've met, the places I've lived, and the opportunities that were presented to me, were all amazing.

I'll come back to visit, and as always, Fire Up Chips!