Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaylynn Harrison.
Jaylynn, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
It all started the Spring semester, during my freshman year of college back at Saint Xavier University in Chicago, IL. I stayed on campus in the dormitory, but when I wasn’t there, I’d be at home with my grandmother. Unfortunately, towards the end of my freshman year, my grandmother passed away. I was given a choice of staying in Chicago or coming to Atlanta with my Aunt, Uncle, and cousins. Stuck between wanting change but being afraid; I took the chance: I chose to move. I moved to Atlanta. May 21st, 2018. It was the day after my birthday and things were looking up. I had my older cousin Michále along with my Aunt Erika & Uncles Rodney and Raymond to be role models for me. Michále took me to different places around Atlanta, such as malls, restaurants, festivals, concerts, and even a trap n’ paint event. Engulfed in a new state & school while joining this part of my family, (and also coming of age)—ultimately made me open up to new experiences. My family is also big on traveling, and since I moved with them they’ve been loving & gracious enough to bring me with them! Since June of 2018, we’ve been to Boston, Martha’s Vineyard, Orlando, Indianapolis, Turks & Caicos, and back home to Chicago. I’ve experienced more of the world in a year and a half than I had my entire life. They’re also teaching me life lessons—like always to be open-minded and receptive to change. Had I not, I wouldn’t be here, nor would I be becoming the young woman I am today.
My goal—with whatever I do, be it the YouTube Channel I’ve created [JaylynnSierra] or other social media platforms—is to influence a large audience to be open-minded. Whether I post myself eating at a new restaurant or taking a different route to work, I want to be the girl people see as courageous. I want people to see that I’m always doing and trying new things. I also want to encourage viewers to love themselves in their natural state and environment and inspire people to be their healthiest—holistically. All in all, my goal is to influence people to be the best version of themselves as I learn to become the best version of myself.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
This road has had its ups and downs. The adjustment period has been very rocky—from learning the roles and household dynamics in my family’s home to adapting to a new Southern culture—I’m grateful for it all. Whenever I feel I’m hitting a low point, I have to remember that being here was a choice I made, and I have to remember the reasons behind it. I also have to remember that God wouldn’t bring me this far to leave me here. I also remember God gives his fiercest battles to his strongest soldiers. Everything happens for a reason, and coincidences don’t exist.
Please tell us about your work.
I don’t specialize in anything—yet. I’m an average college student like many of us! I’m aiming to receive my BS in Psychology by Spring 2021 while continuing to inspire people to grow. 🙂
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite childhood memories come from me doing what I did best—being a child! I miss the days when I would pick onion grass and make “salad” or ride bikes with my friends. Childhood was such a real-time! I often reminisce.
Contact Info:
- Email: jayharrison34@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Jaylynnsierra
Image Credit:
Sydney Harrison
Ajanae Dorsey
Sianna Tamplin
Autumn Clay
Samuel Sympreux
Anthony Warren
Jaylynn Harrison
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