Fulfilling Two Callings with Positivity and Hard Work
Recently I had the privilege to photograph an ambitious young woman who believes she is called to two very different career paths. Julia Walsh, an aspiring actress, and a Nutrition and Biology major is transferring from Syracuse University to Montclair State University in her home state of New Jersey.
“I’m a Jersey girl so I’m looking forward to being close to the city, close to home, and close to the beach!”
“While I was in Upstate New York at Syracuse U, I struggled mentally. I asked myself, why am I a STEM major when I want to be an actress? I got really depressed for a time and didn’t know what my purpose was, but I dug myself out of the hole. I made a commitment to becoming the best version of myself. I focused on health, wellness and self-love. I’m in the best place right now. What has worked for me is being active, staying on a schedule and tuning into my own thoughts.
“If I could offer advice to my younger self, I’d say, ‘When you hear negative words in your mind, stop in your tracks and change your thoughts to uplifting and positive ones.’”
“I’ve put so much time into training as an actress, I don’t want my dream to slip away. But in school, my major is Nutrition and Biology. And I am going to stick with that. They are of equal priority to me. Even though each career has different paths, I believe I’m doing the right thing by focusing on both.”
“What does it mean to be meant to do something? I believe everyone has their call or purpose they are most fulfilled doing. When I was training for acting from morning to night, those were the happiest moments of my life. I felt so fulfilled doing something I love. That is why I feel like it is meant for me.”
“But I also love fitness and health and helping people. For me, it is both of those careers that tap into my best self.
To succeed, I believe that being positive and really pushing yourself is key to getting where you need to be.”
“My mom and I were searching for a headshot photographer. Researching and looking online, I found Alissa’s headshots. I thought they looked incredible. I sent an email from her contact page to set up an appointment.
“While anticipating the day of the headshot, I worried about my hair because some days it looks good and some it doesn’t. Alissa did a wonderful job. She made me feel very comfortable. I want to say a big thank you to her for the headshots. I love them. They turned out amazing!”