Ever since I was young, I’ve felt an innate sense of responsibility to share stories, always hoping that my individual experiences, ideas and life-lessons would be valuable to others. Because of this unrelenting urge, those who knew me well were not shocked when I first fell in love with writing during middle school.

Unlike my peers, the art came naturally to me, and I remember being the only 11-year-old in modern history excited for essays and timed-writing tests. I started and ran a school blog in sixth grade, a campaign promise I fulfilled after winning over the esteemed title of sixth-grade representative. I’m still regularly reminded of this early attempt at a PR career by my junk email address: hmsblogger@gmail.com.

My inherent curiosity also served me well, as I learned and improved how to investigate new ideas and challenge outdated concepts and traditions. I never truly realized the worth or utility of these gifts until I pursued Journalism and Public Relations, and I’ve never felt more aligned with my true purpose than I have at UNT.

I believe my lifelong urge to exchange stories and ideas is rooted in a core value of human connection, compassion and understanding. Communication is at the center of human interaction and dictates every aspect of society. Its strength can determine our collective success and make or break our global landscape. This world is an increasingly divisive place, with many losing hope in humanity altogether. But, even though I toggle diligently on the thin line between realism and optimism, I genuinely believe in a chance at global reconciliation if we all work together to understand one another.

I used to think my life’s purpose was to make others happy. And while it still fills my soul to see someone smile, I’ve learned my actual purpose is to facilitate connection, foster meaningful relationships and, ultimately, spread both love and peace through compassion and understanding. My personal and professional goals span far beyond manageable, but that is because I look at this world as one big classroom and want to experience as much as possible. I have an immense thirst for self-improvement and knowledge, so I see my opportunities as endless and can’t wait to see what my future holds.