Coming into college, I wanted to pursue the music industry, but I came to a college that didn’t offer a program in that field. Long story short, I decided I was going to combine majors and find internships that would help me achieve those goals. Many people had their doubts about me getting an internship in that career field, and after applying to many places and not hearing back, I, too, began having my doubts. It wasn’t until I met an alumnus of the college, Erick Long, who just happened to work for the Academy of Country Music, an organization that I had dreamed of being a part of since I was a young child watching the award shows every year. After introducing myself, talking with him and emailing him non-stop, I finally landed an internship with the Academy in Los Angeles, CA for the summer. Not only was I able to intern for them, but I was also able to be a part of the crew, who help work the festival and the award show every year.

The point of this story is to explain that just because you may think something is impossible to accomplish, it’s not. It’s so important to take every opportunity that is being handed to you because you never know what could come out of it. I met Erick because I was singing at an event on campus that he happened to be attending to accept an award. If I decided not to show up for that, I would have missed out on that opportunity. Even if it means taking on something small that you wouldn’t really expect, you can still get and make those connections with people. I cannot stress enough how important networking is. Everyone knows someone that could lead you to your dream job or your dream internship, or more.

I just recently got back from Las Vegas from working the festival and I just remember wondering the whole time I was there if what I was doing was real. This was only a dream I had had and somehow it got turned into a reality. I remember looking around at everything and everyone around me, taking it all in. How could a small-town girl who barely had any connections get to be a part of something so big? I was surrounded by a team of talented people who put together one of the biggest award shows in country music. With hard work and patience, you can accomplish what you want. You don’t have to set limits for yourself because you think something is impossible. You have the power to be in control of yourself, and if you want something bad enough, you will figure out a way to make it happen. So, as cheesy as it sounds, go chase your dreams. You never know what could happen or who you could run into.