Find a Way

I just heard an inspiring story about a young woman who pleaded with a soft drink company to change her life.

“Music is my passion, but I can’t do that without your help. If I can’t find a way to pay for school, then I can’t go. You could change my life.” That was North Central University junior Nicki Boon’s video message to Dr. Pepper requesting to participate in Dr. Pepper‘s Million Dollar Tuition Giveaway which involved throwing a football into a hole in a target.

Two days later Nicki was called by a Dr. Pepper staff member. Her video plea had worked; she had been chosen to participate. Determined to win the contest’s prize money, she practiced five days a week, 100 throws a day. She became obsessed with winning.

Nicki also worked at a steakhouse, and one of her customers was Minnesota Vikings Ray Edwards. The next time that she waited on his table, she explained her opportunity to him. After she was finished, Nicki added, “I know that you play football, do you have any tips for me?”

“Can you throw the football?”

“No, not really.”

Ray advised, “Throw a two-handed chest pass.”

“You’re a football player. Why are you telling me to throw it like a basketball?”

The next practice, she understood why. “I had so much more control that way,” she explained.

Nicki’s practice paid off, and she went all the way to the final competition held at halftime of the SEC Championship Game in Atlanta. The underdog facing a baseball pitcher, Nicki maintained that the actual competition was “a blur. It felt like David and Goliath walking in there.”

When the competition was over, Nicki saw that she had seven and then realized that her competitor had five. “Did I win this?” She asked out loud.

“Yes,” said the officials.

Nicki was amazed. “A weight just lifted off my shoulders. It was a miracle.”

Her prize was $123,000, which is enough to make her dream of studying the music business at a school in Nashville come true. Her unorthodox method of throwing was accurate, and that’s all that mattered.

I found several of Nicki’s actions interesting. First, she was determined to find a way to have a career in the music business. Second, that career path had to lead through school. Third, she was willing to search out of the box for the money. How many women music majors would consider throwing a football for whatever purpose, even a scholarship? Fourth, she tenaciously and consistently practiced throwing the ball well. Fifth, she sought help from an expert. Sixth, perhaps most importantly, she followed his advice. She was determined to find a way, and she did.

The next time you have a challenge which appears hopeless, remember Nicki Boon and find your way.