Hello, my name is Madelyn Everett, but I usually just go by Maddy. I am currently a senior at Rutgers University, studying strategic communications and public relations with a minor in digital communication, information, and media in the School of Communications. My freshman year, I attended American University in Washington, D.C. I always knew I wanted to go to college in a city; I love the fast-paced energy, diverse food options, and the opportunities that came along with being in a place with so much access. Being from a small town in the middle of nowhere in Pennsylvania, residing in a major city always seemed more exciting. When I got there, I remember being more overwhelmed than anything. Everyone seemed to have their life together; everywhere I turned, there was someone in a suit on their way to their fancy, probably important job. I dreaded going to class; my peers were so sure of themselves and how they were going to contribute to the world. This made me spiral. What was I going to contribute? How could I be sure of myself? Who do I want to become?
This is what ultimately led me to begrudgingly transfer to Rutgers. Not to say it is any less than a city school; it’s a great school and is still close to NYC. It’s just not where I had imagined myself all my life, which was a difficult pill to swallow. After a summer of reflection on my year at American, I decided I would try to make the best of it. I got involved, tried things that I thought I would hate, and pushed myself in ways that I previously deemed impossible. As I go into my senior year, I am proud to say that I have embraced passion projects, built strong foundational friendships, and made the most of my time here so far. Maybe it’s just because I’ve grown up a little these past three years, but I have a few ideas for how I will contribute to the world; I may not end up with a fancy suit, but I am definitely more sure of myself now.
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