We are what we imagine. Our very existence consists in our imagination of ourselves. Our best destiny is to imagine, at least, completely, who and what, and that we are.
- N. Scott Momaday
Growing up, people usually tell me to do what I like and stick with what I am good at, but I rarely hear people tell me to explore new things that will challenge me. So, if you have not been told the ladder, I will tell you now. Whatever fields you are good at, do focus on them but do not limit yourself only to that you have always done. It does not hurt to expand your mind like a parachute – even if you fall, it will be a safer land. Try something different and feel it out to know your stance. You will be surprised at what else you are good at and how much of a positive impact you can have on others as well as on yourself.
As soon are you start your college career, or if you have already started …
- Brainstorm: Make a personal list of goals. Example: getting a co-op.
- Management: With that list, create a rough time line of how you plan to achieve those goals and how long they may take. Example: Make a resume with help from the Writing Center, take advantage of opportunities the Career Center offers, and dedicate two terms in the co-op.
- Explore opportunities: Research what kinds of programs are available at Michigan Technological University, the local area, and even at home. Next, Select temporary jobs, technical/general courses, student organizations and activities that will help you reach your goals and give you the skills you need. Example: Join SWE for networking purposes, join ITOxygen (ITO2) Enterprise in replacement of senior design and gain technical skills, and join International Club to meet new friends and promote cultural understanding.
- Build yourself up: Get involved then take on leadership roles. Example: SWE webmaster, ITO2 team leader and recruiter, and I-Club public relations officer and president.
Place your goals and your strengths in a bright spot of your life. So whenever you get lost in personal problems, financial problems and health problems – I’ve been through all three numerous times - you will be able to refer back to your initial plans. If a plan didn’t work out, then don’t stall and panic for too long; Don’t tell yourself that that is the end of it, because there is always a way in and out and around and under and over and through. Plans are just rough sketches and it is O.K. to revise.
Your years at college move like the train. If you fall behind, your classmates will continue riding the train without you and your teachers won’t halt the train to wait on you. Within a short amount of time, all you can see is a dot far away in the scenery. However, don’t discourage yourself from taking the next train. You will eventually reach your destination…. as long as you do not quit and walk away.
