College Reflection: Do What You Want To Do

Going to college is essentially like being on a wooden plank over the ocean. But, this plank — unlike those on pirate ships — has a net between you and the sharks.

Georgetown is a human incubator where you can try anything (within reason) and know someone or something will catch you. For instance, you can explore different interests without fear of judgement. You can try a business idea without worrying about putting food on the table. Or even explore your sexuality without worrying about what others will think.

Basically, you can jump off the ship as many times as you want, and the sharks won't get you.

There are very few instances in life when this level of experimentation is possible without fear of reprisals or worrying about other things. Yet not everyone takes full advantage.

As a Senior that sees the end of the tunnel approaching, I'm beginning to look back and reflect on my choices. Which makes me wonder — did I make the right ones? Is there some choice that would have led to a better outcome? Did I truly do what was best for me?

Life is defined by choices and Georgetown is no exception.

Throughout my adventures on the Hilltop I was constantly deciding between doing my readings, or going to a talk by an illustrious speaker. Between going to class, or going to a job interview. Between having that extra drink, or waking up early to go to the gym.

Yet, what I have quickly realized — and you probably have too — is: you can't have it all. There are limitations to what we can achieve as individuals. Time is finite, and so is the coffee supply. Thus the question quickly becomes, "what is it that I actually want?"

I thought I wanted what everyone else wanted. A good GPA. A leadership position in a student club. A track record of success. Experiences that I believed would land me a good job, maybe in tech, finance, or consulting.

The path well travelled.

But as I look back at my three years as a Hoya, I don't have the feeling of satisfaction I was promised. I'm getting close to the end with some accomplishments, but also with a small bag of regrets.

For instance, I wish I had taken more classes with Jesuits. I'm in one now and it's a-ma-zing. Jesuits are a fascinating part of the Georgetown community and too often overlooked by students.

I wish I had gone to more office hours, and befriended some of my professors.

I wish I had auditioned for a dance club on campus and seriously participated in a culture club that wasn't my own.

I didn't do these things because I thought it would take away some of my precious finite time — risking the opportunity to the supposed dream job. Yet, looking back that's not actually the case. Knowing what I now know, I should have jumped off the ship.

I encourage you — regardless of whether you're a freshman or a senior — walk down the plank and jump. Forget what people want you to achieve and instead take a risk. Don't worry about whether it will help you get that dream job, or if it will take up your "valuable" homework time. Don't worry if it means you can't finish one of your readings.

Just go and do it.

Originally posted on The Tab Georgetown.

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