DYER, INDIANA
“Life is a gift, never take it for granted -
Sasha Azevedo”
LIVELY | UPLIFTING | VALIANT | PROSPEROUS | FAITHFUL
My Story:
I’ve always made it a point to see beyond what people reflect. I understand that each person struggles with something different, and that a lack of empathy has often made the world a colder place. My struggles with anxiety have made me well aware you truly never know what someone is going through, and each person is dealing with unique circumstances. There have been times when my anxiety has overwhelmed me. I always try to search for joy and serenity, whether it be in those around me or in the finer details that surround us all every day. Over the years, I’ve slowly come out of the “shell” that anxiety created for me.
Going into my senior year, I felt like I had finally overcome my struggles and found myself living my best life. I enjoyed spending time with friends and watching tik toks. With the support of my friends and the love of my family, everything was finally falling into place. But, nothing lasts forever. The COVID-19 pandemic quickly brought me back to past thoughts and feelings. I find myself struggling, now more than ever, with the effects of anxiety as I’m confined in my home with an uncertain future ahead. Will I be able to attend classes on campus at IUPUI? Will I be able to live on the Kelley School of Business floor with my best friend? Will I get to experience some of the senior year activities that were once considered “the norm”? When will things return to normal? But in this new, forever altered world I’ve found a new perspective - a new sense of unity with those around me. I find calm in knowing that my self-isolation is for a greater good. With everything around us changing, I find comfort knowing that the light always shines through; I find myself looking ahead, cautiously optimistic.
Favorite part of working with PAT+CASSIE:
Although time was cut short with Pat and Cassie, I have several memories from the experience of being an ambassador. The most memorable concept I experienced would be Pat and Cassie truly embracing “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” Although confidence is something I struggle with, I take pride in being a very hard working, determined individual who gives everything my absolute best. I see my place in the world as someone who celebrates individuality and differences. I strive to empower others to focus on uniqueness rather than “fitting in.” I aspire to help others gain confidence through self-expression. True happiness stems from knowing who you are as an individual, always being willing to learn new things, and knowing what makes you happy.
What advice would you give underclassmen?:
The advice I would give to underclassmen is never take anything for granted. Live your high school years to the fullest. Appreciate what you have before you no longer have it.
Instagram: payton_gorski
