As a tutoring company our priority is to educate, but we also love to encourage students to step out of their comfort zones and speak up when their passions drive them to do so. This week we interviewed a tutor who discovered her voice through her academic journey.

Meet Rena O.

Can you pinpoint the moment you realized you wanted to be an advocate for others?

R: Growing up I was always an outspoken person, but my freshmen year was when I remember my passion really evolving. That year, as I was trying to find a leadership role that suited me, I discovered a passion to speak up for my peers and their needs. I knew I had to act on it. I pursued this urge through involvement in the mock trial team. It was super fun, but also took a lot of hard work. Through it, I was able to hone my public speaking skills and learn to speak more effectively on the fly when need be. I not only discovered a passion, but found my voice.

Did that passion attract you to your studies?

R: I am going to school for international business and I plan on going on to law school. I picked international business because I love traveling and learning about other cultures. And I decided to pursue Law school because my passion is to be able to speak for those who are not able to speak for themselves.

What's your advice for students who also want to be advocates for others on campus and in life?

R: The moments I grew the most as a person and a representative were when I purposely went outside my comfort zone. When you take that leap into the unknown you grow so much and become more confident in yourself and your abilities. Also, the more you step out of your comfort zone the easier it will be. Don't be afraid; because once you get involved it changes your perception of what the world is really about.

Don't be afraid to pursue your passions and never be afraid speak up. The more you step out and do things that challenge you, the more you learn about yourself. Let your peers, school, and mentors inspire you to discover your own voice!