By Troy D’Souza, Communications Coordinator
I graduated from Mizzou in May of 2019 with a degree from the prestigious School of Journalism, and like many of my classmates it wasn’t until very shortly before graduation that I knew what life would look like after college. After four of the best years of my life and establishing Columbia as a new home, my life got even crazier and I began my first full-time job: Driving the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile.
Yes, it was as crazy and fun as it sounds. Myself and 11 other “Hotdoggers” got to drive the Wienermobile all over the country, do marketing and public relations work for Oscar Mayer, meet thousands of people and form memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. Unfortunately, the job is only a one-year position, so I had to make the most of every single opportunity. In that time, I had the adventure of a lifetime but also learned a lot about myself and other people.
Being away and living out of a suitcase for a whole year was challenging for my faith and my friendships. I was far from Columbia, even further from my family back home near Chicago and basically away from everything and everyone that was familiar to me. But in that time, it allowed for some of the most growth I’ve ever personally experienced.
After traveling through 27 states and over 30,000 miles, I’m back in the heart of the Show Me state as the Communications and Technology Coordinator here at the Newman Center. I’m looking forward to serving in this new role in a place so familiar to me. I’m thrilled to be back in Columbia and not have to attend classes. I’m beyond excited to be living with some of my best friends. So, if you see me around the Newman Center or Columbia, feel free to say hello, tell me a little more about yourself and ask me about my crazy adventures in a giant hot dog.
