By: Abby Johnson (Spring 2024)
My time as an associate at TCC has been a transformative journey, impacting my academic, professional, and personal growth. Initially, I grappled with the class requirements, struggling to navigate the uncertainty that came with a new learning environment. This led to considerable self-doubt about my role in the class and my ability to enjoy the experience. As someone who thrives on structure, I found it challenging to trust the instructor and my peers to pave the path to a successful class. My approach was based on my experiences from typical Belmont classes, but I quickly discovered that TCC offers a unique and different structured learning environment.
TCC has been a beacon of clarity, providing incredible insight into the dynamics of a professional setting. As a public relations major, my career aspirations were once vague, clouded by my lack of understanding and experience in the field. However, TCC effectively simulated a PR work environment, dispelling my misconceptions and uncertainties about what PR practitioners actually do. This class solidified that I am exactly where I need to be, setting myself up for success in the field I am passionate about.
My vision for my desired work is a harmonious blend of creative and logistical aspects. This is why I am so drawn to PR and TCC; they provide the perfect balance of structure and creativity. I thrive in a structured environment where my daily routine is defined, yet not overly rigid to the point of stifling creativity. My aspiration is to embody the ideal fusion of imaginative innovation and organizational efficiency. While I continue to explore where I can find this balance, I recognize that compromising on either side would result in my unhappiness and inability to live authentically. Without routine, I struggle to function, but I also feel unfulfilled if I cannot express my artistic inclinations or engage with other creative people.