We all struggle with choosing a career path. I started on a path that I loved, but it wasn't 100% me. I spent nearly 4 years working for a fashion corporation doing internal communications and, don't get me wrong, I learned a ton. But, this last year has tested me and pushed me into thinking about myself, my dreams, and what really drives me. So that brings me to my first reason for taking on outdoor writing:

1. I am passionate about the outdoors.

I only recently figured it out. Like I mentioned before, I have been doing some soul searching this past year and have been trying to figure out how to mix my passion for the outdoors with a career path. After connecting with other writers and hunters, I found that I CAN take my passions and turn them into a career. Although I have just barely broken into the industry, I am glad I have. If I don't try now, when will I?

2. I have a degree in Journalism.

Why not use it? I chose to major in journalism for a reason; to share stories that are meaningful. There are so many hunting, fishing, hiking and conservation based stories to tell. I want to be the one to do it.

3. Because I was told I can't.

I grew up in a family of hunters, took hunter's safety at 11, and went out with my dad that same year. However, it wasn't until I developed a genuine interest in hunting at 20 that it was a problem. What was the problem? I am a girl, duh.

Last year, I was told that I wasn't allowed to hunt at my family's shack during rifle season. I had been going a couple years with them before a few family members decided it was a problem. Little did I know at the time, I wasn't wanted there; they wanted it to be a guys only camp.

It didn't stop me. I am hunting more than I ever have in the past and I will continue to do so on my own and with my husband. Why give up something I love?

Yes, I was hurt, but that is what brought me to where I am today. I want to empower other women to hunt, if they want to.

So here I am, freshly married and transitioning from my former corporate job to persue outdoor writing. It's exciting, a little scary, and full of possibilities. Finally, I feel like I am fulfilling all my passions; my sense of adventure through hunting, and my love for journalism in documenting my adventures. I hope you follow along! It may be a bumpy road, but I am thankful that it is the road I chose.