Name: Abbey Williams
Major: Journalism w/ a Minor in Honors
Class Standing: Junior
Role in HC: Campus Correspondent
Why did you join HC?
I joined HC to build my portfolio and to be involved on campus. I didn’t realize how invested I’d become in this organization, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
What do you love about HC?
I love the support system that immediately comes with joining Her Campus and I love the organization’s message. I love that I can write whatever I want and use my voice in any way I choose. I love seeing other people discover these aspects about Her Campus as well. It’s so fun to see people write something they’re proud of and share it with others.
What’s one thing about you that surprises people?
Contrary to my wardrobe, I’m an extremely happy person. I just like black clothes, alright?
Who, or what, is your biggest inspiration?
My mom and dad. Every day they show me what love is, whether it’s within their marriage or with my sister and I. They show me the rewards of hard work and what it means to be successful. They bring me closer to God and remind me of his plan every time I call them up feeling worried and stressed. They’ve taught me literally everything I know and I wonder sometimes how my parents can be so perfect, but they truly are. They’ve overcome every challenge they’ve faced with a smile, which is what I aspire to do in my life. They’ve worked so hard for everything they’ve gotten and they’ve always been there for me. I love ‘em to death.
What are your favorite things to do in your free-time?
Concerts are my go-to, for sure. They’re the best way for me to de-stress. They have a wonderful community and have brought me to a bunch of new places, given me new friends and memories I’ll hold forever. Not to mention, I can write about them, which is one of the biggest reasons I’m pursuing journalism.
When you go to a coffee shop, what drink do you order?
Coconut latte, no doubt.
What quote inspires you and why?
It’s a song lyric from “(Un)Lost” by a band called The Maine: “Always remember how lucky you are to have yourself.” It hit home when I was at my lowest point in my life and it inspires me because there are days when shit hits the fan and you feel like you can’t get past the obstacles in front of you. But, you have yourself and that is enough if you choose to see it that way, which is such a cool thought. When you think about it, you’re the reason you’re still here, kicking ass and getting back up when life knocks you down. That’s something to be proud of, no matter what’s going on in your life at a given moment.
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
Get rid of the chip on your shoulder and understand you aren’t the only one dealing with a lot of problems. Everyone has their own battles and no one is going to care and help you through it if you’re constantly bitter, assuming you’re the one that has it the worst. Be kind, love everyone around you, even when they hurt you, and everything else becomes 1000% times easier. People will be there for you if you’re there for them. It’s that simple.
If you could instantly become an expert in something, what would it be?
I wish I knew a bunch of random fun facts so I could be a walking Google. It’d be cool to just have this endless amount of information to share or to have an answer to every question. My dad is that way and it’s only annoying because I’m totally jealous of his intelligence.
What does success mean to you?
Happiness. I don’t care about money (I want to be a journalist, for crying out loud). I’d rather be dirt poor doing something I love for the sheer joy it brings me. If I’m unhappy in a job somewhere down the road, I would change it up because I refuse to come home at 35, complaining about my career, wishing I did something else. If I switch jobs 10 times in my life, so be it. I want to wake up excited for another day & that’s when I know I’ve made it.
Where is your happy place?
In a crowd at a concert. Nothing feels more safe and comfortable than being surrounded by people with a common love for the music being played. You can dance and sing like no one’s watching, because no one really is, and you can just lose yourself. I love that feeling, which is why I go to so many shows and why I use them as a de-stressor. Works every time.
If you could invite 3 people, dead or alive, to a dinner party, who would they be, and why?
Kurt Cobain- I’m convinced he was murdered and I need answers. I also want to pick his brain for a while because he’s so fascinating.
Matty Healy- He’s the lead singer of my favorite band, The 1975 and the one person I want to talk to about music. It’s on my bucket list, so it has to happen.
My grandfather, Pharis Williams- I miss him and it’d be nice to have another hug from him, some words of encouragement and to share some stories like we used to, even if it’s for a short time.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Writing about music, hopefully living out of a suitcase and attending shows multiple times a week, loving Jesus and drinking some coffee, as per usual.
Finally, why should anyone reading this join HC?
It’s so fun to be a part of something bigger than yourself. Sounds cliché, I know, but you can meet so many amazing people, share your thoughts without judgment and speak your mind because you have the freedom to do so. I love being able to express myself informally with my writing and sharing it with others who want to do the same thing.
Any other thoughts?
Join HC, I promise we’re a fun time.