I wouldn’t normally say I suffer from imposter syndrome, but this week I definitely did.
I received an email with my denial to the program two weeks ago. I was disappointed; however, I understood why. A managing editor explained they went with someone closer to entering the workforce.
I’ve always been told that I have an impressive amount of experience for my age, but only going into my sophomore year gets in the way of some opportunities. I am still exploring different career paths and I really wanted to give audio a try.
A week later, I received a voicemail explaining there was a last minute dropout and NextGen wanted to offer me the spot — of course I accepted.
Before the week began, I felt pretty confident about what I would be able to accomplish. I have journalism experience under my belt and I thought this would just be another story.
Let me tell you, I was wrong.
You don’t fully realize the extent of the program until you’re here. Viewing the Miro board filled me with anxiety. I’ve done a lot of interviewing and writing before, but I have only worked on my Audition, visual and web skills briefly in class.
The imposter syndrome set in. I was the youngest in every room. I became “the baby” of the group.
But I wasn’t going to let that get in the way of my finished product. In the end, I was able to complete everything to a level I felt good about.
Looking back at the week, I was challenged, I was uncomfortable and as I am writing this, I am exhausted.
But I am forever grateful to have been part of NPR’s Next Generation Radio. I have grown exponentially this week — which wouldn’t have happened anywhere else.