The trajectory of Hoda Kotb's professional life continues to astound her to this day.
This seasoned broadcaster has been part of the NBC family for over two decades, starting in 1998 as a correspondent for Dateline. She eventually became a regular presence on Today. In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, she admits, "I never imagined I'd end up where I am now."
"When I drive through Midtown [in New York City], I often reflect on this as I enter Rockefeller Center. How did someone like me get here? How did an awkward kid with a name people struggled to pronounce [achieve this]? It felt surreal all along," she elaborates. "I keep wondering, how did I land here? I believe life is about timing, good fortune, supportive people, and similar factors, but I'm continually amazed that out of all the talented individuals out there, I get to occupy one of these positions for a while. It's truly astonishing to me."
Kotb describes her path to journalism as "highly unexpected," and goes on to share her previous career aspirations.
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