Pearl Pham: My Key Takeaways From College
College is an exhilarating whirlwind of classes, internships, and social engagements. Amidst this frenzy, it's easy to lose sight of who we are and what we truly want to achieve. I learned through my own experiences that grounding yourself through self-reflection is not just beneficial - it's necessary.
Majors:
In my freshman year, I was set on majoring in Marketing because it seemed like the most fitting path for me. However, throughout the years and with exposure to different classes, I realized that I was drawn towards coding and wanted to equip myself with technical skills for my career. This epiphany led me to switch my major to MIS. This completely switched my entire career trajectory.
Pressure with Internship Searching:
The constant pressure to excel academically and secure the best internships can be overwhelming. I remember nights when I felt so bogged down by expectations that I’d stalk LinkedIn comparing myself to others achievements (we’ve all been there). It was during these times that I decided to close the LinkedIn tab and open more internship applications. I realized that my anxiety wasn’t conducive towards my progression towards my goals. Journaling was a form of self-reflection that helped me understand and manage these emotions. This practice not only improved my mental health but also enhanced my focus and productivity.
Social Circles:
In college, it's tempting to amass a wide circle of friends, equating social breadth with success. Yet, I found that nurturing numerous superficial relationships saps the energy and time that could be better spent on meaningful pursuits aligned with my core values and goals. I realized the importance of choosing quality over quantity in friendships. By focusing on deeper connections with individuals who share similar values, support my aspirations, and challenge me to grow, I was able to create a supportive network. This selective approach didn't mean isolating myself but rather investing in relationships that were truly enriching and aligned with my long-term goals.
Aligning Short-term Actions with Long-term Goals:
It's easy to get swept up in short-term pleasures and distractions. Regular self-reflection has been crucial for me to keep my long-term goals in focus. Whether it’s setting aside time each week to review my progress or adjusting my course to stay aligned with my aspirations, reflection has ensured that my actions are intentional and goal-oriented.
Your years in college are more than just a stepping stone to a career; they are a critical period for personal growth and self-discovery. By making self-reflection a regular practice, we can ensure that we remain true to ourselves, pursue our genuine passions, and lead a balanced and fulfilling life. Let’s not let the noise of college life drown out the voice within us that whispers our true desires and aspirations.