My college search was short, sweet, and right to the point. I had absolutely no uncertainty, and the moment I laid my eyes on the beautiful, lush, campus of Ohio University, I knew that I would be spending the next years furthering my education in Athens.

I visited twice, stayed there over the summer, and played in the Ohio High School Athletic Association district tennis tournament at Ohio University for the past few years. Every time, I loved it. It’s exactly where I NEED to be.

So it comes no surprise it was my top pick, and only pick, for college. Honestly, I didn’t apply anywhere else, which my guidance counselor would frown upon, but oh well. I applied to the college, and then the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism within the college. I was accepted to both, and was ecstatic. I love it.

I can’t wait to leave, but I’m hesitant to be away, I suppose it’s part of the growing experience right? Anyway, as I sit and write this for my blog at The Bargain Hunter, I think about what it is I’m exactly doing. I’m writing for a real publication. I’m going to Ohio University to learn about print journalism, yet I’m already doing it.

I’m working at what I love to do, without even being in school yet. It’s sort of crazy, but I’m loving every second of it. Of course that means being busy, with everything. I feel old, but I honestly don’t mind. Even though I am busy, I think of everything I’m accomplishing, and I’m proud; things like, NHS (National Honor Society), keeping good grades, and doing post-secondary classes. Not many 17-year-old kids can say they write for their living, and not many would say they would enjoy it, but I suppose that’s what makes me different, because I do LOVE it.

Writing takes me away to a relaxing place (cliché right?); well, for me at least... my peers, not so much. But I guess we all have that certain thing that makes us relax. For me, it is writing. For my boyfriend, it’s probably the gym (which makes me cringe at the thought of working out. I try though, that’s good enough for me) and for my sister, it’s indulging in some chocolate, cozied up at home; everyone’s different.

But this experience is not only going to benefit me in the future, it’s helping plan it. Writing for this publication just made me realize how much I really do love to write, and not only write, but have people read it and have my name published. It makes me feel very accomplished, and only reaffirms my faith in the decisions I have made so far. So many kids don’t know what they want to do. I used to be one of them. When I was little, I had my little heart set on being a teacher, until I realized how annoying us kids really are for seven hours a day, then I reevaluated my future plans.

I went through many phases of interests, but I didn’t really get involved in journalism until my freshman year of high school. My teacher was Mr. Burnison, and till this day, I’m still in his classes, as sarcastic as he is. His class made me interested in what will be my future. He deserves a big thank you for that one. But, anyway, my passion for writing has only grown since then. And now, I know for sure, this is going to be my career.

Writing fits me and my life. If I get to write wherever, whenever, and about whatever for the rest of my life, I will be satisfied with my accomplishments.

When people ask me if I’m the twin who’s writing about sports, I laugh a little and respond with a “Yes, I’m the one.” Even though I hate being referred to as a twin, it’s still pretty cool to know that there are people out there who get to read what I write, and as far as I know, enjoy it.

That’s all this young mind has to say, well, for now at least, because once you meet me you’ll know I love to talk, almost as much as I love to write. Teenager out.