What, exactly, am I accomplishing by being unapologetically myself on campus? 

In psychology, differentness attracts more attention than sameness (obviously). That means that by dressing differently, not only do I garner more attention from curious peers and professors who want to know what a hick like me is doing at an urban university. But I become way more memorable and recognizable. 

And as people learn more and more about me- from the simple fact that I was born and raised in Denver, not Red Wing, to the fact that I’m a Biotech major with Cystic Fibrosis, and thus have a much greater dog in the fight than most- the more they want to see me succeed and are willing to lend a helping hand. 

Indeed, having Cystic Fibrosis and an “interesting” look about me have become assets, not drawbacks, in the academic world, so far. Especially since, contrary to popular belief, professors tend to look at new, different things with curiosity and a willingness to learn, rather than with fear or disdain. 

To be continued…