Sometimes what seems like a set-back
Is really a set-up
I studied journalism in college
But had no intention of being a writer
I chose journalism because I thought I wanted to get into broadcasting
It wasn’t for me
Yet my school, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Made it nearly impossible to change majors (a blessing in hindsight)
Instead of broadcasting I opted for the news-writing track
The journalism oddball
Out of place
I didn’t belong
Each interview filled me with dread; the teachers intimidated me
I powered through and got my degree
But left college without direction
I began to journal
What the hell do I do with my life?

After a few trips to foreign countries
I realized traveling excites me like nothing else
My desire for understanding interwove
With my longing to explore
I’d travel, take photos, and write stories of my journeys
This was something I could get behind
I went on to get my master’s degree in creative writing
Everything clicked
For the first time in my life I enjoyed school
I wanted to read
Learn
Improve
Studying journalism taught me how to write
When I discovered I wanted to write about life not the news
My education became the impetus to
Explore what gripped my heart and soul
It’s been eight years since journalism
I’ve since written two books and over 650 pieces online
I chose journalism for a reason
It just wasn’t what I initially thought
The gods were watching over me
And they’re watching over you
We can’t imagine how what we’re doing now
Will benefit us later
The pain, the challenge, the frustration or loneliness
It’s strengthening us
Everything happens for a reason
The set-back
Is the set-up

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