The First Step

"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."

As a student, I always stuck to formula. Once I learned a proper way to complete a task, I engrained that mental template in stone and never strayed. An English teacher of mine told me an OK way to begin an essay is to open with a quote. No matter how many instructors tried to pry me away from that conventional style I adopted, it was no use.

On to the subject of the student. I used to smirk whenever I saw someone said their occupation was being a student. Now, as I stare college in the face and a myriad of changes ahead, I can't help but do the same thing. In high school, I spent 4 years on the publication staff. So I decided my career must be something involving journalism. However I also became involved with speech and debate. That changed my outlook on the future. All of the sudden, I changed my mind and chose to pursue something involving talking for a living. Thankfully, Indiana University provides a major called, "Culture and Communication". Bam! I had my path laid out.

The subject of culture is broad and involves quite a bit to speak on. In my life, culture has played a major role. I grew up in the city and saw many different backgrounds which influenced how I saw the rest of the world. I always assumed the whole world got the same treatment as I did. When I went to South Side High School, I saw even more diversity. But when I tell other folks where I grew up they marvel at the idea of black, white, indian, burmese, thai, chinese, etc. in one building. I was at home with the differences.

Being as how I love speaking, and I grew up in diversity, Culture and Communication sounded like the perfect fit. Going into my freshman year of college, I will get a good taste of public speaking, American political controversies, Islam and geopolitics, and the world in front of me. This whole journey I will embark on will change my outlook on life. I'm not scared of change, as long as it does not manipulate my character without my willingness, I am fine with living life and coming out with a fresh perspective.

This blog is meant to document my thoughts on this journey. Who knows, these posts may last through a school year, or through my entire college career and beyond. One things for sure, I am looking to experiance Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Happiness.