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“Note to Self” – Reflections as a Soon-to-Be Graduate

Dear 18-year-old Kayla,

I know you feel weak right now, like life has completely knocked you off track, but know this: I am stronger today because of everything you’ve endured. You’ve weathered countless storms and still managed to find the light in it all.

You taught me resilience. Despite everything you’ve gone through, emotionally and mentally, you always found your way back to the path we’ve dreamed of.

I feel most confident when I’m surrounded by the things I love: people, music, stories, and purpose.

My greatest gift is the optimism and love I continue to give freely to the world, even when it hasn’t always been kind to me.

So, my experience at Howard University has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. Over the past four years, I’ve had high highs and some of the lowest lows, and for much of that time, I’ve navigated it all by myself. Ever since I was a child, I’ve been naturally optimistic. That mindset has carried me through, and today, I take pride in how confident I am in the things I love. I may not have it all figured out yet, but I know I’m going to end up exactly where I’m meant to be.

What I didn’t realize until recently, though, is how much I’ve struggled in silence. I’ve celebrated in silence. I’ve cried, healed, grown in silence. I’ve spent so much time managing my own world that I forgot how to ask for help, how to open up, or even how to share my wins.

Freshman year was hell. Sophomore year felt like purgatory. Junior year brought a little light at the end of the tunnel. And senior year? I’m still walking toward that light, but I’m no longer alone on the path. The people I’ve met this year have shown me what support looks like. They’ve let me be vulnerable, and because of that, I’ve become a better journalist. I’m learning that vulnerability isn’t weakness, it’s what gives stories depth and authenticity.

I’ve been writing since I was 16. I’ve always loved finding stories in music, covering events, and telling narratives that deserve to be heard. But I never truly let myself be the story. I’d ask other people intimate questions but avoid reflecting that intimacy back onto myself. That changed this year.

Howard University has taught me the power of showing up as my full self in every room. Being surrounded by people with big dreams and authentic spirits pushed me to grow—not just as a journalist, but as a person.

Being a media professional isn’t just about telling the truth, it’s about living it. It’s about compassion, curiosity, and commitment. Through NewsVision, MJFC, and Howard as a whole, I’ve learned that my voice matters. My story matters. And so do the stories I choose to tell.

I’m grateful for the growth, the grit, the grace.

I’m ready for what’s next.