Name: Brittany Johnson
Major: English w/ a minor in Professional Writing
Class Standing: Senior
Role in HC: Writer
Why did you join HC?
I heard about the club through my roommate. I attended a couple meetings and it seemed like a really fun group of people! I love writing, have a personal blog of my own, and thought Her Campus would be a good outlet for my passion.
What do you love about HC?
HC allows you to be as creative as you want as a writer. You can write about whatever topics interest you and know that others will be reading it! Additionally, it’s really fun to read others’ material and just be involved in an artistic and motivated community.
What’s one thing about you that surprises people?
As a military brat, I’ve moved around my entire life. People have often expressed surprise at how much I’ve moved and how easily I adapt to new surroundings. I once had a girl in high school tell me, “You’ve only lived here for two years? I thought you had been in school with us this whole time!” Life is all about new opportunities and living in the present!
Who, or what, is your biggest inspiration?
Bethany Hamilton has always been a big inspiration to me. For those who don’t know, she’s a surfer who lost her arm in a shark attack at the age of thirteen and overcame the tragedy to continue pursuing competitive surfing. It’s amazing to see someone so young face something that most of us cannot imagine. She’s a good reminder that determination can conquer anything, and passions should always be prioritized.
What are your favorite things to do in your free-time?
I absolutely just love being outside, and believe humans were not meant to be restricted behind walls (except when it is -2839 degrees in Laramie, Wyoming). On a regular basis I enjoy going for short runs, but my real favorites are hiking, skiing, and biking. That said, I definitely enjoy a good movie night with super unhealthy snacks.
When you go to a coffee shop, what drink do you order?
Most of the time I’m too broke for anything fancy and just go for a house coffee. But occasionally, I will splurge and get myself a vanilla, hazelnut, or caramel latte.
What quote inspires you and why?
“It’s okay if you don’t know which way you’re gonna go, just don’t be afraid to feel it all.” This is a lyric from a song by The Fray, a band that has inspired me since I was young. It’s a good reminder that life is full of ups, downs, and uncertainties, but every experience is a beneficial one.
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
Don’t waste away trying to please other people. This goes for family, friends, and society in general. This short, precious time as a young adult is all about growing internally and finding your purpose. In ten years, it will not matter one bit how wild your social life was or how many likes your Instagrams got. Assert yourself and don’t be afraid to stand out. Do you, find you—she’s a pretty neat person.
If you could instantly become an expert in something, what would it be?
The ocean—specifically, ocean ecosystems. Yes, I was that little kid who aspired to grow up and be a marine biologist so that I could train Shamu at SeaWorld. I even “adopted” an orca for a year (named Cali). Obviously, my career path took a bit of a different route, but I still think the ocean is a mysterious, amazing place and always love learning about it. I also want to learn how to scuba dive.
What does success mean to you?
Success is happiness and self-appreciation. I am less concerned with money and fame (even though those are pretty cool) than I am with achieving a life where I am doing what I love and bringing something good to the world. When I get overwhelmed, I remind myself of a quote that my dad once showed me: “The race is long and, in the end, it’s only with yourself.” We define our own success.
Where is your happy place?
There is something ineffably wondrous about looking out into the ocean. I love the beach, cold or hot, and would be there every day if possible. Those beautiful waves have a curious way of making you feel simultaneously small and powerful. Also, seashells are beautiful.
If you could invite 3 people, dead or alive, to a dinner party, who would they be, and why?
Ellen DeGeneres—I don’t think I need to explain. Frederick Douglass—his story is astounding, and he just seems like he was a ridiculously brilliant and cool person. J.K. Rowling—Harry Potter basically consumed my life from ages ten to sixteen, and it would be pretty great to meet the writer who changed the world.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Likely, still trying to find my way in this big world. I have absolutely no idea where I will be in five years, which is a little scary but also a little exciting. Hopefully, whatever it is I’m doing will involve writing and good company.
Finally, why should anyone reading this join HC?
If you have any inclination to write and get your thoughts and experiences out to the world, you would thrive in HC. You get the fun of being part of a group of super cool people, and the organization caters to your individuality. Also, if you’re an extremely busy college student (basically a given), HC is very flexible and does not require extensive commitments.
Any other thoughts?
N/A