Fellow graduates (or any others who need a little emotional lift)!
Twenty-four hours ago a mental truck full of anxious nerves and self-doubt rammed into my mind. I was seated in the passenger seat of my father’s car while we slowly drove through the sleepy town in Connecticut where he resides. The last remnants of the day shone as bright, golden rays gliding through the ample forestry lining the roads. It was in that seat that I realized I had just over a week till I moved into my dorm at the University of Florida. How had that time arrived so quickly?
I quickly remembered my fortunate situation. I will be attending a wonderful institution with a close friend by my side, whom I am eager to embark on this journey with. However, it wasn’t always such a cheery future. I had not imagined myself staying in Florida to pursue higher education, but that is how things worked out. And now, I couldn’t be happier or more grateful.
Although I seem to have all my ducks in line, there is still a smidge of worry. Am I on the right track for my self-empowerment? Most importantly, do I belong where I am? Today, there is an immense presence of pressure placed on students and other young adults (let’s be honest, we are still children). Every student graduating is expected to know exactly what they plan to do in life, and have goals and plans in place to accomplish those expectations. As we near the end of summer, I think it is critical for each of us to remember that it is ok not to have a ten-year plan or even a plan for the next six months. Throw out the plans. Instead, focus on things you see yourself accomplishing and doing things that bring happiness to your life.
Dismiss the stress of expectations. Retain moments of happiness and self-confidence.
I would also like to acknowledge those individuals who chose a unique path. In this day and age, attending a higher education institution is no longer the only route after graduating. Students today choose to take gap years, pursue employment, stay at home to help out the family, or travel the world. Those of you who chose a unique path might also be experiencing feelings of doubt and bouts of stress. I want you to know that you also deserve to feel secure in your decisions.
So fellow peers, don’t compare your situation to others or worry that you aren’t doing enough to be successful. Each individual will have unique experiences and opportunities. Let yourself have those moments that are solely yours. Remember, success comes in all shapes and forms.
Everyone, I hope you can be happy. You deserve a life without the burden of comparing yourself to others or feeling doubt in yourself.
