This morning as I was scrolling aimlessly through my Instagram feed before my 8 a.m., thinking to myself how tired I was and how stressful my day was going to be, I was thinking about all my upcoming tests and papers and making my mental to do list for the week. (Taking 18 hours might of been my worst decision to date.) Basically, I was just throwing myself a little early morning pity party. That is when I came across a post by Chris Pratt, who I know better as Andy from "Parks and Recreation." He had posted a picture of his early morning commute to work and provided me the pep talk and kick in the butt that I needed.

Pratt wrote, “I am doing what I love. It doesn’t feel like work. Even though it is,” after being up for three days straight. “I’m having fun. I’m overcome with joy and gratitude.

“I felt like posting this to say to anyone out there chasing your dream,” Pratt continues. “15 years ago I felt the same passion I feel today, but I had very little opportunity. I had to hustle hard and go hungry. I had to eat sardines and figure out how to get gas money. And I never had a plan b.” As if I didn't already want to be best friends with Chris now I want him as my life coach too.

This was the right message at the right time, and I think that every struggling college student can agree after being bombarded with hours of schoolwork. We are at that point in our lives where we have to decide what the future holds for us. Yes, you read that right, we decide what the future holds. We face a crossroads when we have to choose between chasing the money or pursuing our passions.

Just like Chris, I have chosen to chase my dreams. The tests and papers and projects are all just stepping stones on our journey. Chris gave me the reminder that I needed, never lose hope, never lose faith, take a deep breath and keep doing what you love. You are on the way and the only thing to do is to keep striving and doors will open. I have decided that to live our dreams is not easy and we travel a bumpy road but if we continue to push ourselves beyond our limits and have a grateful heart, it will be worth it in the end.