I consider myself fortunate enough to attend a University that strives on getting their students involved - Rider University. I am currently a freshman, a psychology major, and one of THE MOST socially awkward people you will get to know. I am not known to do anything out of the ordinary, however, I wanted to change that.

Rider University has many events going on all the time. I found it is hard to not become involved; and as you may have guessed, this article talks about an event called R Factor, which inevitably relates to the well-known singing competition, "X Factor."

X-Factor, for those who may not know, is a reality show that involves a man named Simon Cowell, as well as three other famous, iconic artists. Either they buzz you and you're out, or they recruit you for their team. Either way, it sounds intimidating; and definitely out of my comfort zone...which is why I registered to sing for R Factor.

Now if you're like me and had no idea what you just walked yourself into, let me paint a picture for you. There is a big stage, an even bigger audience (about 400 people!), and three judges critiquing you. Rider University is known for its Musical Theatre program, no wonder an even like this existed.

I was surrounded by so many talented people, from freshmen to transfers, who have been singing their whole lives. Obviously, this was not me. Sure, I sang a bit in the shower, but who hasn't? I'm talking about in front of an audience...not just the shampoo and conditioner bottles.

I was the tenth person to go. When I stepped on stage, with my leather jacket and bright pink floral leggings, I just said to myself: F***, what was I thinking!!! Was I nervous? No. Terrified? Absolutely.

Nevertheless, I sang Charlie Puth's Attention, got an applause (which was very much appreciated), and got my feedback. I was told that I looked nice, but choose the wrong song. It all led up to a judge saying that he was going to keep the seat for someone else, but to never give up.

Sure, not moving on was a bummer. But I got up there. I faced one of my biggest fears and then from literal shock I burst into tears. I wasn't upset about not moving on. Far from it, actually. It was tears of joy. In my eighteen years of being on this planet, I would have never thought of singing in front of hundreds of random people. This was a huge milestone for me, and I have never felt prouder.

The last thing I will say is a two-parter when it comes to doing something that is scary for you. #1, when you have that anticipatory (beforehand) anxiety where your palms are sweaty and you start to pace like a mad-man, take many deep breaths and say, "I'm not nervous, I'm excited." The things we say to ourselves really have an overall effect on us. It is our choice to make it a positive or negative one. #2, Time flies. Not to sound like a cliche, but you are only going to have one life. I had one chance of being an R-Factor contestant as a freshman and I took it. I feel like I beat an obstacle, and I encourage you all to do the same, no matter what that obstacle may be.