In my recent years of college, I've realized the importance of being an icon. Being an icon sets you apart from the crowd, it makes you a competitive contester and teaches you how to be a definite leader.

I can sit here and tell you all about the wonders of icons. I can explain to you how trendy to dress, where/how to take cool pics and even what foods to consume. But the true indication of an icon comes from within. I'm not trying to be corny, but it's true! If you think about it, no one else on the earth is exactly like you. Flaws and all, you are irreplaceable.

There is something about you as an individual that makes you unique. That is the same thing that makes you iconic. instead of hiding this thing, you should capitalize on it. Make it your "thing."

There is something so incredibly refreshing about someone who is unapologetically themselves. Over time, you realize how important it is to be truly yourself. When I was younger, I always wanted to be different in some way. I wanted different hair, a different body and a different personality. I hated how annoying I used to be (still am) and my quirky sense of humor. Not only so, I projected this dissatisfaction onto others. This is how people viewed me.

Eventually, I realized that I couldn't change the way my hair curled, how wide my hips were or how hilarious I found the silliest things. So I started to embrace them. I started styling my curly hair instead of hating it, I started wearing clothes that celebrated my body instead of shamed it and I even started using my quirky sense of humor to my advantage (I won Class Clown 2014, just saying).

The only way to be a true icon is to be true to you. It's a lifelong process and I'm still learning myself. But it all starts with acceptance. It starts with accepting your face, your hair, your person, your strengths and even your weaknesses. People are so drawn to genuine confidence. It is something we all want but, unfortunately, because of societal pressures, don't have. Confidence comes from within. Money is temporary, looks can fade and even success is unstable. But who you are, at your core, is unshakeable. Stay true to you, boo! Cause you're pretty awesome, just the way you are.