If you asked me about my journey, I'd say you'd sure be in for an interesting, perhaps even inspired ride. I want to show you a glimpse of myself and relate to those of you who may feel you don't fit in the tiny box you were given. Originally born in LA, I moved to the East Coast at a young age. As long as I can remember, New York has always been my home. No, not NYC, but upstate NY, in the 518 as we call it. The town I am from has more cows than  people and you can pass through it in about 3 minutes. Growing up as the only person of color in my community, I have always felt different but could never really pinpoint what it was or why I was feeling this way. Was it because of my skin? Was it because I was the only person in my family who played sports? The only person who wanted to leave my tiny town? I thought maybe going to college would help me find myself. 
 
While attending college I was good enough to be a walk-on to both the DIII women's volleyball and basketball teams, but not good enough to make a professional career from playing–a torn ACL and poor rehabilitation made sure of that. That's when I knew that I needed sports in my life. I then switched my major to sport management and later moved across the country to pursue my masters degree at USF. I came to California with 2 suitcases and hope. Now after 3 short years of living in California, I have happily joined the Cal family as the newest addition to the Olympic Sports Operations team. 
 
For the longest time I had felt forgotten. I moved here by myself with little to no help. As a first-generation college student, I have had a spark and drive to do better and be better not only for myself but for my friends, coworkers and family. When I announced my new position, I honestly shed some tears with the amount of messages I received from people I hadn't heard from in years. I knew that I had done something big. It might sound cliché but, no matter where you come from, no matter what it takes, never give up on yourself. Don't confine yourself to small boxes and table talk. Be heard, voice your opinion; you are your number one advocate. If you were to ask me 5 years ago where I'd be today, I would never imagine working at Cal or living in California. Dreams bigger than myself were put in front of me and with no hesitation, I grabbed them. I am still searching to find and build a better version of myself. Life will always test you and kick you down the stairs sometimes, but as long as you get back up, you'll be just fine. Now that you know about me, take from it what you will and know the sky is your limit. 
 
Jenifer Morgan is a Director of Sports Operations for Cal Athletics.