Forging Your Way 

I have come to understand that success is not just about achieving goals; it is about the person you become while pursuing your goals. On the road to earning my master’s degree in public relations, I have learned the importance of remaining persistent and present even in moments when you don’t see immediate results, because if you do not, you can miss out on the lessons and skills that are essential for both your career and personal development. While in pursuit, knowing that at times I have to make things happen and not wait for them to happen, has gotten me far in this journey. 

I am a first-generation college student and alumna of Syracuse University, who graduated in spring 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in political science. I am now completing my fifth consecutive year here, only this time as a public relations graduate student at the Newhouse School.  

The lessons I have learned have shaped my mindset and how I approach my work as a photographer and a graduate student. Through the Newhouse graduate program, I have been a contributing photographer to the Newhouse Sports Media Center and The NewsHouse, shooting sporting events on and off campus. Many of my photography opportunities have come from me proactively seeking out available opportunities or creating them myself when they didn’t already exist. 

For the past two years, I have hosted a solo photography exhibition titled “Now It’s My Turn,” showcasing over 20 of my best images each year. These events have been about more than just photos—they are celebrations of Black expression, Black talent, resistance and women’s empowerment. They remind attendees that they, too, can act and create opportunities for themselves, rather than waiting for the world to open doors—a message that ties directly into the 2024 event theme, “You Miss 100% of the Shots You Don’t Take.” This is just the beginning; I am committed to continuing this journey with my largest showcase yet planned for 2025 in New York City. This event will feature not only my work but also submissions from emerging artists and photographers, giving them a platform to showcase their own talents. 

My experiences as a student athletic engagement intern with Syracuse Athletics have equally reinforced these recurring lessons. This semester, I have had the privilege of helping student-athletes prepare for life beyond sports and aiding in their personal development, whether by assisting with financial literacy workshops, supporting events like the Syracuse Men’s Basketball Business Etiquette Dinner, or launching “SAE’ It,” our office’s new podcast, as the assistant executive producer. Ultimately, we are aiming to give athletes and coaches a platform to tell their stories. I have also had the opportunity to help grow our social media presence and coordinate exciting upcoming spring events. I have gained transferable skills, mentorship and leadership opportunities through this role. 

The opportunities I have pursued, whether through photography or my work with the Syracuse Athletic Department, have taught me that success is a journey that requires adaptability, endurance and initiative. Choosing to spend another year at Syracuse to complete the Newhouse master’s program has allowed me to build meaningful relationships and gain the wisdom, knowledge, skills and support necessary to push toward my goals. I look forward to continuing to learn, grow and create opportunities—not just for myself but for others as well.