Carlos Martinez, a freshman at Barry University, participated in the 2018 Acel Moore workshop. This is his first blog of college life in the Sunshine State.
I must admit that this small kid from North Philly had some trepidation when he made the decision to attend Barry University in Miami.
On June 8, 2018, graduation day at Community Academy of Philadelphia (CAP), a place that called home since age 5, I thought to myself, “What the heck are you doing, kid?” It was then and only then did I fully realize that I was making a life-changing decision – a decision that carried a lot of responsibilities.
I had made a lot of friends and left my mark at CAP, but the time had come for me to literally hit the road, Jack. So, in August, I loaded up my 1998 Honda Civic and headed down I-95.
Arriving at Barry University, I felt a little uneasy at the first. The closest family member I had was on a Caribbean island or Philly, 1,000 miles up I-95. Moving into the dorm and meeting my roommate was a sense of relief since we have been talking and getting to know each other via social media. Miami in some ways was a culture shock for me.
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The climate, and a diverse population made me realize that I was not in Philadelphia any more. I’m a big city kid who is comfortable with the rustling sounds of SEPTA and the hustle and bustle of a big northern metropolis. Miami is the polar opposite of Philly. With the fresh air blowing through palm trees and a diverse community, I was quickly learning the ways of being a Miamian. I’ve only been here for about a month but I’ve extended my networking skills all the way to a travel agency in Miami Springs. I work as public relations officer for Daiquiri Tours in Miami Springs, and I am a Media Center Assistant on campus. I am also a freelance photographer for the school’s newspaper, The Buccaneer. I partner with the Chambers of Commerce in Miami Springs/Airport Area in Miami, and Delilah & Co., pushing a positive mind-set and influencing people from all ages to make wise decision and stay on the straight and narrow path.
I’m studying Broadcast and Emerging Media with a minor in Photography. I am not yet set on my career because of an ever-changing landscape in the media. I know I want to motivate and inspire people, telling them they can achieve anything in life.
I love using my voice knowing it has a purpose. Being at Barry University made me realize my future is bright and I know there’s a purpose here that I must fulfill because failure is not an option.