The Journey Begins Tomorrow

Tomorrow I board a plane and head to Washington D.C. for the week-long Washington Journalism and Media Conference (or WJMC). I will meet new people from all over the country who have similar aspirations to mine, and I could not be more excited for this wonderful opportunity. This is a big step towards building a stable, successful career that involves the things I love the most: photography and travel.

This all started a few months ago when I received an invitation in the mail from George Mason University, and I casually brought it up in conversation with my parents, not ever expecting that I would actually be able to go. But here I am, six hours before my first flight takes off, getting ready to make some memories and learn more about the path I am headed down. After many hours of research, emails, phone calls, and fundraising, the time has finally come to venture north and expand my understanding of photojournalism.

The conference starts on Sunday, but I wanted to get there a few days early so that I can go sightseeing at all the places that I won't be going to during my time at George Mason University. I plan on making a stop at the zoo to hopefully see the elephants (my favorite wild animal) and all of the other beautiful creatures that inhabit the park (pictures are to follow). As I have never been to Washington D.C., I have a lot of activities planned; however, I don't want to get ahead of myself, so I will talk about my experiences after the fact.

While yes, I am nervous... I'm mostly excited. I will meet new people and form friendships with them, I'll add to my life experiences, get some great photojournalism practice in, hear from some inspirational leaders and speakers, and hopefully have the time of my life. More posts are to come about my time in Washington, so check back!

-MJ