Personal Brand Statement
Start becoming who you want to be now; don't wait because if you wait, you'll never start.
As I grew up, people described me as a quiet, soft-spoken, timid person. One day, I decided that's not who I wanted to be. Struggling with anxiety has always been a big part of my life, especially growing up. It kept me from doing things I enjoyed at the risk of a panic attack. I've learned various tools to try to contain it, and since it's been less noticeable, I have been able to open up and connect with people. Connection is very important to me; I want to know who I'm talking with, not just their primary identity but their story, what makes them them. This small act eases the tension and ultimately brings us closer together, which is essential in any sort of relationship; whether it's romantic or business, there needs to be a sense of closeness. I hope to apply this idea to all future endeavors I partake in. I have also become more of a people person. I really enjoy having people around, whether it's as little as two or as many as ten. I always find myself indulging in many conversations with who's ever around. As I'm older, I realize the importance of communication and the need for it in all situations. I've always been good at communicating with others and hope to maintain this developed skill. Since growing away from my anxiety, I have been a much more vocal individual, standing up and doing what others won't. I am now described as an outgoing, optimistic, and positive person, which shows how far I have come.
I have participated in many extracurricular activities from a very young age that helped shape who I am today. One of the most beneficial clubs I've participated in was 4-H. While doing 4-H, I learned the importance of resilience, responsibility, and the power of communication. One of my biggest fears is failure, and within 4-H, no one was there to make me do anything or complete my animal projects, so from a young age, I always had a sense of independence. I needed to do everything independently, including research, writing, creating notebooks, and working with my animal, typically a horse. Since I was in one club for my entire horse experience, I held various roles: president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer. Within these roles, I had the chance to perform numerous different duties. I was in charge of taking well-organized notes on everything discussed at the meetings, leading the club in the meetings, and keeping track of money. These roles introduced me to countless new ways of involvement and aid to my 4-H community. Having so much responsibility helped me step out of my comfort zone and learn to ask for help when needed. I also had the privilege of being one of two 4-H ambassadors. Being an ambassador allowed me to spread the enjoyment and learning opportunities 4-H possesses. I did this through parades, booth tables, and banquets, where I would meet so many new people and connect with them. Though I am older and not as active in my 4-H community, I still work with and show my horse, Arlo, which will always be a massive part of my life. I compete in a way that makes me successful and a positive role model for younger girls. I never had a person to look up to growing up, so it's my goal to be that person for others. I enjoy helping them learn, complete their patterns, and grow as equestrians.
My ultimate goal is to work at SiriusXM and become a radio personality. This is a huge goal to have and maintain, but my goal can be fulfilled with the right amount of effort and skill set. Working at SiriusXM has been my dream ever since I was little, and it has always been at the back of my mind as I tried to decide my career path. I believe my eye for emerging media and research on popular topics will give me a leg up on other candidates when seeking employment. Also, radio personnel need a specific humourous, attention-grabbing personality, which I have. I want to be a source of entertainment for all listeners and keep them up-to-date on all things related to my specific channel. Although listeners won't be able to see me clearly through my voice/speaking, I feel they will be able to hear my positive attitude and love of the job. As this is my future goal in life I decided to double major in Journalism, Broadcast, and Media and Communication studies at Grand Valley State University. These two degrees will give me plenty of hands-on practice and preparation for my career path. I also plan on getting my Masters in Communictaion studies since I will learn a lot more communication techniques than a Bachelor's degree will teach me. I hope to become a much more rounded individual and gain more communicative tools to add to my toolbox. Landing my dream job will be a tough challenge for me, but I'm hoping that with all of my ups and downs, I can show others from my small town that their dreams are always achievable.
My family has also been a massive part of my life. I grew up between 2 brothers, and we would do everything together. My brothers could never hang out alone, but I learned how to keep balance with all three of us. They both made me a much stronger person physically and mentally, and I could never thank them enough. My parents taught me how to be resilient and enjoy life's little things. Once I started to enjoy the small things, the whole world shifted and became full of beauty that was not noticeable before. It opened up my eyes to many more possibilities and adventures. I think everyone needs to take a moment and enjoy what is around them.
