On this date five years ago, I interviewed at Coastal Carolina University. I had landed in Myrtle Beach for the first time in my life the night before. After falling asleep to the sound of waves in my hotel room that overlooked the ocean, I was ready to nail the day of interviews. The next several hours would prove to be extremely crucial for my future.

A selfie I took on the balcony of my hotel room on March 5, 2014. This was moments before I went downstairs to catch my ride to campus for my day of interviewing.

Three people chaired the interview committee. One person is now the vice president of marketing and communications at Utah State, one is now the athletic director here at CCU, and the other was recently named our interim chief communication officer. I was speaking to some pretty important (but very humble) people. I get nervous for all interviews so you can imagine I was a little anxious for this one.

I talked extensively with Bill, Matt, and Martha. I had interviews with the University Communication team and a group of campus staff members who also specialized in communication. I had to submit a social media plan and present it. What a day!

My interview took place on, coincidentally, Ash Wednesday. It was a rainy and cool day, much like today. Bill drove me back to the airport in bumper to bumper traffic as the rain continued to fall. He told me I would know in a week or two if I got the position. When we shook hands outside the terminal, I wondered if I would be setting my feet on South Carolina soil ever again.

If only I knew then what I know now, I don’t think I would have accepted a ride back to the airport. I would have told Bill that he had to hire me and that I would work for free if it meant him giving me the job.

You see, accepting a position at CCU turned out to be the best decision I ever made. Of course the job itself has been incredible and more than I imagined, but it goes deeper than that. If not for the opportunity given to me by Coastal Carolina, I would not have Sidney or Sloan in my life. To think about not having my two girls is devastating.

If not for five years ago, I would not have this!!

So, on this five-year anniversary of visiting Myrtle Beach for the first time and sealing what would turn out to be a job offer, I thank God for letting the stars align. I am one lucky guy. Don’t Blink.