Who am I – in case you were wondering…

“Great student, talks too much.” For thirteen years these six words haunted my every report card. Twice a year I would shudder at the thought of having to bring my report card home to my parents knowing they were going to see that I was still talking too much in class.

The actual grade was of little concern - A’s were expected. What mattered most were the teacher’s comments in the small box next to the grade. No matter how many times I was told to pipe down in class, I never did…and I mean never!

When the teacher opened the floor for class discussion, I was (and still usually am) the student to wildly flail her hand in the air until I was called upon. If I wasn’t called upon I would shout my answer anyway.

Ironically, my chatty nature lead me into the field of study I am in today, Public Relations - the one career where my conversational skills will help me grow in the work force. Whether it’s talking to co-workers, the public or the media, awkward silences are a rare occasion.

Today, I understand that sharing my voice is not a bad thing. Although there are certain things I always try to take into consideration before I open my big mouth:

·       Knowing when it is appropriate to speak and knowing when to simply shut-up,

·       Confessing when I am wrong,

·       Admitting when I don’t have the answer and not being afraid to ask for clarification, and

·       Understanding that we all view the world differently and to respect our unique differences.

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I am best described as the product of “only child syndrome.” Both of my parents are from large families and made the mutual decision when I was born that one was enough!

As the only child in my home I became, completely dependent on my friends to stay entertained. I always wanted to be surrounded by friends and therefore was always looking for ways to entice them to come play with me. Here began my passion for event planning.

Born in January, my birthdays were always inside at the bowling alley or the swimming pool. I desperately wanted to have an outdoor party, so at seven years old, I saved my allowance and hosted a party at my house during the summer. I purchased bubbles, games, skipping ropes and other outdoor play items. I delivered invitations and even created an event schedule!

I remember sitting on my back porch eating hot dogs and how my friends talked about how my party was the best they had ever been to! Although I didn’t know it then, this day inspired my continued passion for event planning.

Later in my youth I would move from planning block parties, to student council in Junior High and Special Events Rep in High School. The icing on the cake was when two co-workers at a part-time job convinced me to apply to the Public Relations program at the Mount - I was accepted and have been loving it since day one!