I studied the wonderful art of storytelling under the direction of the University of Missouri School of Journalism's convergence program, focusing on multimedia platforms. During my time there, I was able to to learn how to tell stories and connect with audiences through not only traditional, textual means, but also through photography, video, radio, and multimedia elements such as audio/visual slideshows. Perhaps the greatest thing I learned from the program wasn't necessarily the art of storytelling, but rather the art of communicating intelligently and socially with a wide-array of peoples from different backgrounds and with different occupations. The opportunity the program gave me to work in actual newsrooms and interact with the local community for stories was invaluable.In addition, my role as a leadership advisor for the University's Residential Life office for a student community helped shape me. I learned how to advise peers in a student community, foster teamwork and communication, and meet challenging expectations while balancing multiple duties.I am proud to say all my experience related and unrelated to the School of Journalism has nurtured what I am passionate about: positive and constructive communication with a flavor of creativity.