If you are anything like me, which you probably are since many of us are certainly overachievers, you may find yourself only honing in on skills, activities, and organizations that you know you will excel in. Personally, I have a tendency to be fearful of stepping outside of the comfort zone I have created for myself, whether it pertains to personal, academic, or professional endeavors. Coming to Vanderbilt has actually forced me to partake in things I never would have before, learning to ultimately embrace uncertainty.
To be completely honest, it is terrifying to take new paths and try new things when the outcome it will produce is currently uncertain to you. Whether that is applying for a club, taking a random class you know nothing about, or acquiring a new skill, there is a sense of hesitation that lingers during your process of learning. I find myself asking if my new path is going to lead to failure, if it is beneficial to my future, and if it fits in the path I have seemingly curated for myself.
Throughout my time at Vanderbilt, especially the Spring semester, I have learned the importance of letting go of the urge to be in absolute control of my future. Yes, I am still proactive in discovering my passions, pursuing professionalism, and excelling in my academics, but above all, it is so important to remember that you do not have absolute control over what the future holds. Apply for the club. Talk to someone you have never met before. Send the email. Stop letting the fear of uncertainty hold you back from reaching your full potential. Don’t ignore your subtle urges to try something new in fear that you will not excel in it or get rejected from it.
If I could sum up my freshman year, this is definitely my biggest takeaway. Embrace the fact that you are so young and capable of consistently trying new things. Don’t be afraid to step outside of the parameters you have preemptively created for yourself. Expand your horizons, test yourself, and don’t forget to have fun while you are at it 🙂