The Very Beginning

Writing a blog is actually kind of scary when you think about it. In fact, I have been deliberating for the last few hours about how I should even start this first entry. Am I supposed to be formal and professional, or is this blog just a free expression of my trip along the way?

I'm a little afraid of the blank space here.

With this blog, I intend to connect to all kinds of people and show potential and current sponsors that their money really is going towards this outstanding opportunity in my life, and to highlight to any future employers that because of this journey of mine, I will take risks and learn new things to put myself out there.

I do not have a concrete plan of how I plan to raise the tuition for the conference, so I am going to try a variety of venues. Starting with this blog, I am also planning a host of other things. I plan on starting a webcast of sorts that hopefully will be compatable with this setup, and taking advice from the Communications Department at American University, I am going to utilize Facebook to broadcast my progress.

As a word to any sponsors that I may come into contact with, I thank you in advance for being part of the reason I am able to make it to Washington this summer. I could tell you that it will open up thousands of doors that I would not be able to get to without this conference, but it really doesn't explain how much this means to me.

When I grow up, I want to be making movies. Whether I become the director, the producer, the screen writer or even the DOP, I will be able to look back and appreciate the skills that I gained from my week at George Mason, all because a few companies or individuals believed that I had what it took to move things that much farther.

You see, your money is not going towards a week of my sitting before famous reporters and anchors and being talked at. I will be learning the ins and outs of journalism and media, something closely linked with film and communications. I will meet people that can get me places after I finish college and establish lifelong contacts that I can continue to use throughout my career. You are not simply handing out a donation that will keep me entertained for a week. You are investing in my future.

To my family members that are prepared to stand by and support me on this self-titled expedition, I can only say that I'm glad to have a group like you in my life.

I am beyond excited to travel to George Mason this coming summer, and will continue to keep you all up to date on my trials and tribulations, as well as any great news that happens to come my way.

Thanks for reading,
Leena