As I sit in a coffee shop before my first day (one and a half hours early because you have to account for traffic, of course), I begin to reflect on everything that has led up to this point. From choosing my future career path with my academic adviser to the countless changes I’ve made to my résumé, to running through the Quad to ensure my application is turned in on time, to jumping up and down for accepting my first full-time internship in the New York City. An immense amount of preparation has been put into this very moment (and I’m not talking about the five trips to Nordstrom to find the Contrast Piped Ankle Zip Jogger Pants in olive — I found them, by the way, and I’m wearing them).

The book I’m currently reading is called “You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero. The objective of the book is to teach readers how to stop doubting their greatness and live an awesome life. A quote from this book caught my attention: “It’s not that the things and opportunities that we want in life don’t exist yet. It’s that we’re not yet aware of their existence (of the fact that we can really have them).” It’s not that I’ve never thought about living in New York City and having a dream internship; it’s that I never actually believed someone like me could really have that. I realize I was so wrong. Whatever you want in life is out there, even those Contrast Piped Ankle Zip Jogger Pants in olive. It will take time, perseverance and determination, but those are the opportunities that are really worth fighting for. Wish me luck!