june 15, 2019

I began college as a 18 year old girl who was excited to meet new people and take classes in matters I was actually interested in.

Almost four year later I am a 20-something year old woman who grew into the girl I needed when I was 18.

Now you're probably thinking to yourself "how did she do that?" so let me tell you:

I got involved and met a lot of amazing people

Whenever you find yourself in a new and unfamiliar environment get involved in things you are passionate about and you will find your people --it may take time, but trust me you WILL.

I wasn't afraid to do things alone (most of the time)

I was in second grade when I first attended summer camp, alone. yep! For a week plus I spent time at a lake surrounded by other kids I had never met. This grew into the much awaited summer tradition throughout my childhood. Fast forward a decade and some years... I went off to college not really knowing anyone, I studied abroad halfway around the world (knew no one) and have gone to events in the cities not knowing anyone and great things have come from it (even my amazing internship).

Doing things alone can be scary and awkward at times, but sometimes it's these experiences that we need to prove to ourselves that we are confident in who we want to be perceived as, before trying to convince others of our AMAZING abilities!! (if you don't think you are talented, YOU ARE...ask a close friend, family member or mentor what they see in you and you will be surprised but the potential people see in you.)

I knew (right) now was the time

Don't keep waiting for the "right" time to do what you want to do.

If there's an application for an internship or opportunity apply today.

If there's an event going on and you don't know anyone, go anyways.

You'll never know until you just go and do.

I check-off my life-long dream & studied abroad

This was definitely the highlight of my college experience.

5 months of adventuring, traveling, constantly experiencing new things day-to-day.

I grew in ways I didn't know were possible.

I became more confident in who I was and at the end of the day I became passionate about a cause I knew nothing about, International Education. This led me to Washington D.C. where I was given the chance to meet and talk with Congress about the importance of our students going abroad. I am so thankful for my semester abroad and the incredible support system I had with AIFS when I came back to the US. Living halfway around the world from your support system causes you to become more independent in ways you never would have realized.

Okay, so, maybe this is you or maybe this isn't you? but I'm sure we can connect on some level--either you changed your major too, traveled or are finally seeing your potential. Send me an email I'd love to hear your story. And if you're well established in your career and have great advice, share it with me!

xo,

Kat