It's not how you start, it's how you finish!

Many times, I have heard this phrase, and often, I wondered its significance. But it didn’t correlate with me, until I started a new job with Microsoft this month. I want to take this time to encourage students from all backgrounds on the importance of not giving up after the first couple of setbacks and challenges. I too, struggled in my early semesters in college trying to adapt to the change in pace and lifestyle. Half way into my first semester, I accumulated 4 F’s, 2 D’s, and 1 C. From those midterm grades, I thought that “college was not for me”. I contemplated dropping out of school and picking up a minimum wage job or taking some time to figure out my passions and what I should do.

After reaching out to a trusted advisor and friend, I applied for the Disney College Program. I was hoping this experience would provide me with the personal and professional growth necessary to determine what I wanted to do with my life. And amazingly, the Disney College program proved to be everything I needed and more. This internship/co-op exposed me to the importance of why an education and how it factors into the quality of life an individual can have. It also showed me that every great decision or transition comes with challenges. And although my first semester was not the greatest, I had the capability of adapting to the Disney culture, which was the indicator and courage I needed to reapply for my degree. I was determined that getting an education was indeed the right decision for me. Once I restored the vision and purpose over my life, everything became clear, and my “mojo” was back.

After completing the Disney Program, I returned to South Carolina State University where I graduated with double majors in Business Marketing and Management. And now, I am excited to continue my education and professional career with Microsoft, a company dedicated to empowering the lives of people everywhere to achieve more.

Here are some tips that might help change your experience:

1. Don’t throw in the towel. Quitting is not an option.
2. It’s okay to take a step back and evaluate what’s going on. Self-awareness is essential regardless of external factors.
3. Take a break, regroup, and get back in the game. It’s common to feel “burned-out” or overwhelmed.
4. Change your environment, or travel as frequently as possible. The more you are exposed to, the more motivation you can build from within.

Most Importantly, speak life and positivity over your life! Look in the mirror, and tell yourself every day that you want today to always be better than the last day. Tell yourself you belong and that you’re important. And certainly, tell yourself, YOU CAN DO IT no matter what challenges come your way.

Stay encouraged LinkedIn Family. If you ever need a helping hand, or some positive words, feel free to reach out to me.