I remember as a senior in high school, I ultimately had to convince my parents to let me go away to school. Had that never happened, who knows where I'd exactly be today. Once that convincing was settled (which took literally months), I had to make the big decision of where to spend my four years of college. I was sold on Nebraska, as I got a 4-year scholarship. When my parents shot it down because it was "too far," I knew something better and bigger was on my horizon. Once I was accepted at the University of Illinois in December 2006, I knew it was inevitable that I would be attending.
Little did I know how much of a life-changing experience that it would be. What an impact U of I has left on my memories, my heart, and my life.
It led me to my career path of advertising, something I take great pride and joy in. I am fortunate for the type of experiences I got at U of I to lead me to wonderful internships, leadership positions, and ultimately, a job at the biggest media agency in the world. I feel extremely blessed.
Not only did U of I give me the quality education needed to enter the real world, it led me to a number of my best friends that I still consider to still be the biggest part of my life. Had it not been for my first choice to live in the 6 pack, the last minute decisions to join classes, or to join specific clubs, or to apply for certain jobs, I would have never met some of the most special people I hold dear to my heart. It's amazing just how simple decisions like that can determine who you meet, and who you deem to be the people you want to hold close.
And lastly, had I never gone to U of I, I would have never met my amazing friend, Lauren, who ultimately led me to the most perfect guy for me. I cannot thank her enough for introducing Adam to me. Not only do Adam and I share a number of interests, we now share an alma mater, which is something that will connect us for many years to come.
As I make my way to Champaign today, I reflect on just how much the University of Illinois has offered me and how grateful I am for it all. Cheers to a weekend of fun, craziness, and most of all, remembering and creating memories.
#Homecoming2012
