“If you feel something, say something.”

This was one of the most important pieces of advice I received from one of my teachers who influenced me to start pursuing journalism. When I was in high school, I decided to join the yearbook staff. Little did I know, it would end up changing my life. It sounds dramatic, I know, but it taught me more than I could ever imagine.

I was lucky enough to have two teachers who taught me everything I know about how to tell someone’s story. It’s something I take pride in, and it’s something I want to do well. I want people to know that their stories are important, and I want to be their storyteller. During both my junior and senior years of high school, I was the editor-in-chief of the yearbook staff, and it was during this time that I figured out journalism was what I was meant to do.

Once I graduated high school, I wanted to get involved in any way that I could. I immediately joined the campus radio station and started writing for my school’s online newspaper. Later on, I joined the video branch and started doing a weekly talk show with one of my friends. Before I knew it, journalism was taking over most aspects of my life, but I didn’t mind it at all.

You might be wondering why I’m telling you these things. The reason? Because I’ve had a lot of people tell me that pursuing journalism isn’t realistic. I’ve been told multiple times that getting into journalism is “almost impossible nowadays.” I’ve had family members and family friends tell me that maybe looking into another major “wouldn’t be such a bad idea.”

I’ve had some discouraging moments, too. I’ve had bad interviews, experienced writer’s block more than anybody deserves to, and had people who wouldn’t even give me the time of day. I’ve had professors fail me on papers. I’ve cried while writing speeches at 2 a.m. I’ve beaten myself up after interviews for multiple broadcasting internships.

But you know what? All of these experiences have gotten me to where I am now.

I was lucky enough to figure out early on what I was meant to do for the rest of my life. Maybe getting there won’t be easy, but I know it will be worth it. Being a part of student media has taught me more than I ever thought it would, and I learn something new (and incredibly valuable) every day. I’ve gained more experience through the opportunities I’ve had than I ever thought possible.

I guess what I’m trying to say is don’t lose sight of what you want to do with your life. Life happens and sometimes you fall short, but it doesn’t mean that you aren’t meant to pursue a passion.

So next time you begin doubting yourself, think again. You’re more awesome than you give yourself credit for. Keep chasing that dream, you go-getter you.