Going For It

by Brianna Jokerst-Oleson (United States of America)

A leap into the unknown USA

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Ever since elementary school I’ve had this dream to travel the world. I remember hanging up tropical-themed pictures from a calendar on my bedroom wall and having such an eagerness to get there someday. I also remember one night feeling extremely discouraged because of my family’s financial situation; I tore the pictures down. When my mom noticed what I’d done she decided to have a little pep talk with me. She told me that I in fact would get to these places someday if I just held on to the determination I had. Today is March 1st, 2020. Last year I graduated high school, and now I’m working 6 days a week at a restaurant so I can save up money to move down south. I’ve lived in Alaska my whole life and I’m definitely due for some sunny weather. I feel very grateful to have grown up in such a unique and beautiful place, but it’s not for me anymore. I need to be in a place that has more opportunities for me. Eventually I am going to open a restaurant in California, but before I get too deep into my work regarding that goal, I want to travel, and the more the better. I just want to see new things, try new things, and do new things. I want to meet people and make connections with them. I have an enthusiasm for heathy, sustainable, and delicious food. I want to spread my message to as many people as I can. I want to soak up as much wisdom from other people as I can, so that I can have a more positive future. Sometimes I doubt myself and what I’m capable of, but when I notice those type of thoughts I try to remind myself that I can do anything I set my mind to. All it takes is a little hard work. The self doubt probably comes from a fear of not experiencing and enjoying all the things that I possibly can. Life is very short, I just want to make the most of it. I haven’t done much traveling yet, but the times that I have gone on little trips were just a blast. Even just being at an airport makes me so excited. I can’t wait to explore and go on adventures. Whether I win this scholarship or not, I know I’ll get where I’m going eventually. It’s all a journey and the work I’m doing now is going to be so worth it. Thank you to everyone who made THIS opportunity a possibility for me! I hope whoever wins this has the best time. Maybe I’ll be writing a story about this experience in the near future.