At 19, I found myself at a crossroads. My friends were getting paid 50$ an hour for both gigs and professional internships, and here I was, not knowing if my major would do me any good.
I felt like I was stuck in a never-ending cycle of being rejected because I lacked the necessary skills. I was starting to lose hope, and the prospect of spending the rest of my life like this scared me.
Oftentimes, it takes young people courage and initiative to get noticed:
But one day, I decided that enough was enough. I was determined to break out of this rut and find a job, no matter how impossible it seemed. I started applying to every opportunity I could find, even if it wasn’t the most glamorous title there was.
This time though, I reached out directly to people I wanted to work with. I finally received a call for an interview. I prepared for it like it was the most important thing in the world. And to my surprise, the person on the other line put a bet on me! That job opened doors for me, and I gained invaluable experience that helped me get better opportunities.
Here are some important reflections I got along the way, so you can find your opportunities as a student too:
1. Believe in Yourself and Never Give Up
The most important lesson is to believe in yourself and never give up. It’s easy to get discouraged when you’re faced with rejection after rejection. But the key is to stay focused on your goals and keep pushing forward. Remember that every “no” brings you closer to a “yes.”
2. Take Risks and Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
Sometimes, taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to great rewards. Applying for jobs you may not be fully qualified for, networking with people outside your usual circles, or even pursuing a different major or extracurricular activity can open doors and lead to unexpected opportunities.
3. Find motivation in others
As a university student, it’s important to build a support system and surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share similar academic and personal goals. You can join online Facebook groups like Study with GenZ or try using a website like LEAN Social to find study buddies.
4. Learn from Failures and Setbacks
Failure is not fatal; it’s an opportunity to learn and grow. Every rejection, every missed opportunity, and every setback is a chance to reflect on what you can do better next time. Use these experiences to refine your approach and improve your skills. You’ll be amazed at how much you can learn from your mistakes.
5. Embrace the Journey and Enjoy the Process
Finally, remember to enjoy the journey and embrace the process. It’s easy to get caught up in the destination and forget to appreciate the small victories along the way. Celebrate every success, no matter how small, and take time to reflect on how far you’ve come. The journey is just as important as the destination, so make the most of every step along the way.
My story is proof that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. No matter how stuck you feel, there is always a way to move forward. Don’t give up on your dreams and take the steps necessary to make them a reality. With hard work and dedication, you can achieve anything.
What do you think?
