I’ve been an athlete my whole life, but it wasn’t until I started my journey as a distance runner at the University of Nebraska that I began to fully realize the impact I could have on others.
As NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities emerged, I saw an avenue to not only benefit myself, but also inspire and mentor fellow athletes.
Now, as a social media influencer, I’m incredibly passionate about advocating for authenticity, breaking stigmas, and using my platform to make a positive impact on the world.
Embracing Authenticity
When I first started my NIL journey, I had my doubts. I questioned whether being a non-revenue-generating sport athlete would limit my opportunities.
But then, I remembered my younger self, desperately searching for role models to look up to during the recruiting process and throughout my collegiate journey.
I realized there was a void that needed to be filled, and I wanted to be that big sister figure for others. By sharing my experiences, insights, and behind-the-scenes moments, I aim to provide a glimpse into the life of a collegiate athlete and inspire others to embrace their own unique paths.
Breaking Stigmas
One of the topics I am particularly passionate about is breaking the stigmas surrounding female athletes, especially distance runners. There’s this misconception that you have to look a certain way to be successful in this sport, and I grew up feeling insecure about not fitting that mold.
It took me a long time to realize that everyone has different strengths, and if we all looked the same, there would be no point in having sports.
I want to remind athletes, especially young girls, that they can achieve greatness just the way they are. It’s about embracing your body, fueling it properly, and focusing on what you can do, rather than what you look like.
NIL Lessons
Through my NIL journey, I’ve learned the importance of being authentic and true to myself. It’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to be someone you’re not, especially when you’re putting yourself out there for the world to see.
But I’ve discovered that my personality and unique perspective are my greatest strengths, and that’s what everyone wants to see from me.
No one else can be me, and that’s what sets me apart.
So, I encourage other athletes to embrace their authenticity and share their stories with the world.
Overcoming Fear
Of course, being in the public eye comes with its fair share of challenges. There will always be people who have something to say, who try to bring you down.
But I’ve learned to tune out the noise and focus on what truly matters. It’s a reminder that we can’t control what others think or say, but we can control how we respond.
And the best way to respond is by continuing to be authentic, spreading positivity, and making a difference in the lives of others. As I continue my journey and look ahead, I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a role model and mentor to others.
Through my NIL partnerships and content creation, I strive to inspire athletes of all ages to embrace their unique paths, break stigmas, and be themselves. By sharing my story and experiences, I hope to empower others to chase their dreams and make a positive impact on the world.
At the end of the day, it’s not about the number of followers or brand deals. It’s about the lives we touch and the legacy we leave behind.
