I have never been the first to speak up in class, ask questions or worse, volunteer an answer. So the idea that I would choose a major like Public Relations, that practically guarantees a career of non-stop public speaking, seemed ludicrous. It was at a fundraiser for a friend in middle school, who needed treatment for leukemia, that I discovered that I had inherited the persuasiveness and sales skills that are so prevalent in my family tree. That day, I sold more raffle tickets and raised more money, than anyone else in my class. That’s when I found out, that when I feel passionate about a goal I can, and will, find the way to get it done. I also realized that I have always felt energized by, and enjoyed, talking and getting to know people from all walks of life. All of the sudden, a career in PR didn’t seem so ridiculous after all. My immediate goal is to gain the skills in my classes that will help me gain access to the industry. I also hope to become a member of the Agency, and work in their social media department. Then, in the summer, I plan to gain additional experience with an internship. After graduation, I’d like to work either for a public relations agency or for the PR department of a corporation or brand, outside of Florida. I’ve never lived outside the state and would love to get to know a new city. A recent trip to Nashville put it on the list of possibilities for me, together with Chicago and Atlanta two other cities that I love. Eventually, I would love to become an independent publicist, with my own clients, both individual and corporate.