Here Are Five Things I Learned Along the Way

Yes, you read that correctly- it took me over a decade to complete my undergrad degree. You are probably wondering why, and the short answer is: life doesn’t always go as planned. Life can be messy; there can be many barriers you didn’t expect to arise, and that’s okay.

The reason for my long journey was a multitude of things: health issues, debilitating anxiety, moving around frequently (causing me to change community colleges constantly), changing my major more than once, and eventually getting pregnant and taking a break to focus on motherhood.

Here are some things I learned along my journey:

1. Everyone’s path is different: stop comparing yourself to others.
This took me years to accept. I used to beat myself up all the time for not completing college in “just” 4 years. For many people, it’s just not realistic! I had to stop focusing on comparing myself and my life to other people. Everyone’s journey and circumstances aren’t going to be identical to your own. Give yourself some grace, and instead focus on how you’re going to achieve your educational goals.

2. Being a student has no age limit: don’t be embarrassed or ashamed because you feel too “old”.
Learning has no age limit! I always found it incredibly inspiring when people older than me were in my classes. I would wonder what circumstances lead them back into school. Once I was over the age of 24, I started to feel insecure among my younger peers. Don’t do this to yourself! Age doesn’t matter, don’t let it hinder you.

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3. It’s okay to change your mind about your major.
Choosing a major can be simple for some students: they go into college knowing exactly what they want to do. For others, it can be overwhelming or scary. You are not alone if you can’t make up your mind entirely. About 80 percent of students in the United States end up changing their major at least once, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. On average, college students change their major at least three times over the course of their college career. Narrow it down to 2–3 majors, and go from there. Also- having an amazing school counselor will help tremendously!

4. Don’t forget to take care of yourself.
School can be so stressful and consuming. Getting a good night’s rest and staying hydrated are essential. On long days of studying, go outside and get some fresh air. Carve out time to do something you enjoy. Don’t skip meals! All of these things may seem small, but in order to retain information, keep up with assignments and doing well in school- you can’t forget about yourself in the process.

5. Don’t give up: if this is a goal you set out to accomplish keep going!
I know what it feels like not being able to see the light at the end of the tunnel, but trust me when I say it’s there! Even if it’s the dimmest flicker of light. Keep chugging along, continue to knock out classes, and reach your end goal. Consistency and determination go a long way. One of my favorite quotes that kept me going was, “Never give up on a dream just because of the time it will take to accomplish it. The time will pass anyway.” — Earl Nightingale.

No matter how burnt out I was, I refused to quit or give up. The journey was extremely long- but I DID IT, and so can you!

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