Chapter 30
I spoke in front of two thousand people and didn’t vomit! Today will go down in the history books! Okay maybe not, but Lisa and I killed our presentation. Also, Mr. Bannerman is a lying liar. He told us we were speaking in front of a couple hundred people. It was two thousand. We addressed the entire conference. I was shaking by the time we got off the stage. Then there waiting as we exit the stage is Mr. Bannerman smiling a big smile that says he got away with something.
Here’s the thing. I’m an amazing writer. I know it. I am fine with knowing it because I’m not the best public speaker. I can hide behind pen and paper or my keyboard any day. However, addressing hundreds of people much less thousands, is, needless to say, outside of my comfort zone. Thankfully, Lisa took the first part of the presentation. I never thought four months ago I would want to kiss her face out of gratitude. An expression of course. I’m pretty sure that the quiet Bella would punch me if I actually kissed her. She may be timid, but I have a feeling she could put me in my place if she were angry enough.
Now that the fear of presenting is far behind me, I’m ready to celebrate. What better way to celebrate than go to every single booth in the conference and collect freebies? NYU has a booth somewhere around here. They have a partnership with the New York Times. I can’t wait to make it to their representative and as it turns out I don’t have to. As I make my way out of the crowd, I’m stopped my Mr. Bannerman and the previously mentioned rep.
“Miss Roberts, I have someone who is eager to meet you” Mr. Bannerman says.
I instinctively reach my hand out and shake the hand of a woman in a navy skirt suit with a gold NYU tag visible on her blazer. “Hello, I’m Amelia Roberts.”
“I’m aware Miss Roberts; it’s a pleasure to finally meet you in person. I’m Olivia Jones. I’ve read several of your articles. It’s good to put a face to the voice,” she speaks with authority, and I’m about to faint.
“Thank you, ma”am” I respond politely. Olivia Jones, head recruiter for NYU has read my articles.
“Well, if you have some time I would like to sit down for a cup of coffee and discuss a future for you at NYU. Mr. Bannerman tells me that we are at the top of your list.” I smile gratefully at Mr. Bannerman. This makes up for him lying about how many people we would speak in front of.
“I would love that.”
“Well, I’ll leave you ladies to it. I need to go track down Miss Taylor. There is a Harvard rep that I want her to meet.” With that he leaves us.
“Like Harvard needs any help,” Ms. Jones rolls her eyes.
“Not a fan of the Ivy,” I joke. It just came out. What? I’m nervous.
“It seems you aren’t either” she responds. I breathe a sigh of relief that she took it well.
“No ma”am, I have always wanted to go to NYU.” I clarify.
“Ma”am, I’m not much older than you. You can call me Olivia.”
“Yes ma”am.” I stop myself. “Sorry, force of habit. It’s the south after all.”
“That it is.” She motions me to follow her and leads us out of the large conference room to a small coffee kiosk that has been set up outside. After we both get our cups and exchange some basic pleasantries, we sit down to begin. I’m not sure what is worse, the nerves from giving the presentation or this conversation.
“I have to ask. With your grades and early success in the field, what interests you in NYU versus the Ivy League?” Wow, she is straight to the point.
“Honestly. New York. I’ve loved the city since I was a little girl. My mom would take me once a year. When I was old enough to read, I”d beg her to get me a copy of The New York Times from the news stand.” I remember the feel of the first paper I bought. I can smell the ink. “New York is where my love of journalism was born, and your school is one of the few that works with the Times. Your journalism program is unmatched.” I hope my answer is what she is looking for.
“You are an interesting young lady. Most students would have highlighted only how NYU would be lucky to have them or how it is a steppingstone for great things.” I take a moment to ponder what she has said. I’ve never looked at NYU as a steppingstone. It’s a destination. Have I been short-sighted?
“NYU has been my goal for years. I want to experience everything it has to offer. I’d be grateful to attend your school. I just hope you can see some value in me and my writing and allot me the opportunity.” My response is earnest. It’s never been a given that I’ll be accepted.
“Unmatched talent, yet humble. Keep that attitude when you join our ranks.” she says impressed.
“Join your ranks?” My heart is beating fast. I don”t think I heard her correctly.
“Oh, I intend to offer you early admissions. Amelia, you are one of the most talented writers I’ve seen in years. I came to this conference for you. I’ve been corresponding with Mr. Bannerman the last couple of months.” As she speaks my mouth hangs open.
“I’m not sure what to say. Thank you.”
“It is conditional of course. You have to keep your grades up and remain on the Briarwood paper. I’ll be checking in every couple of months just to make sure you stay on track.”
“Yes ma”am, I mean Olivia,” she laughs as I fumble.
Just like that, every dream I have been working for comes true. I’m going to the college of my dreams. I knew Briarwood would help me get there but I never thought it would happen this fast. I can”t wait to tell my mom. I have to thank Mr. Bannerman. Ben. I want to tell Ben.