The soft glow of the computer screen casts an ethereal light on my tired eyes, contrasting sharply with the enveloping darkness that surrounds me. It’s 1:29 am, a time when the world sleeps, but my mind refuses to rest. It’s a time when the street racers and party goers come alive, their noise blending with the thoughts that refuse to rest in my mind. The solitude invites introspection, and amidst this nocturnal symphony, a question echoes relentlessly as I approach the end to my senior year of high school.
“Would you choose a different reality if you had the choice? Would you do it all again?”
For so long, Cornell was my dream, an aspiration held close to my heart. But when the harsh reality of rejection struck, I was forced to confront the ephemeral nature of dreams. Throughout the admissions cycle and the entire school year, this question plagued my mind, gnawing at my thoughts. If given the chance, would I wake up in an alternate reality where I stood as an incoming Cornell student?
Surprisingly, the answer is no.
“Are you crazy?” the voice of doubt interjects.
No.
“You can’t be serious,” it insists.
But I am.
Rejection, when viewed as a lesson rather than an assault on personal integrity, carries profound wisdom. Yes, I felt the sting of disappointment, my hands empty of Cornell merchandise that would have symbolized my acceptance. However, I chose not to internalize it as a personal failure. Instead, I took a step back, delving deep into contemplation. I thought about my life’s direction, the ways in which Cornell would have contributed to my goals, and the eagerness that had consumed me.
And here’s what I discovered.
As it turns out, half of the goals I wanted to achieve and nurture could be pursued independently, with the aid of another university’s resources—if only I knew where to look. My ultimate dream was to shatter the boundaries that often confine low-income students of color, granting them access to higher education. Could Cornell have provided the resources to achieve this? Undoubtedly. But I also realized that I had the power to forge my own path, with the support of others who shared my vision.
Looking back on my experiences, I find myself preferring the journey I am currently on—the process of building my own brand and mission. In these moments, I’ve come to understand the true meaning of reaching out beyond the confines of Ivy League circles. I’ve welcomed the opportunity to construct an inclusive community that embraces individuals from diverse backgrounds and colleges, transcending the shackles of prestige and rankings.
I’ve encountered remarkable people who inspire, motivate, mentor, and support me in ways I could have never imagined. Through rejections and failed projects, I’ve learned to instill confidence within myself, to pitch my ideas, and when to seek help from others. So when I ask myself, “Would you switch realities if given the chance?” My answer remains a resolute no.
Instead, I implore not only myself but all those reading this to stop taking rejections personally. They do not assail our personal integrity; they are not insults. Let go of disappointment, because that elusive job or college opportunity does not define your entire existence. It is a mere fragment, minuscule in comparison to the vast and intricate tapestry that weaves together the entirety of your life’s journey.
If I could alter the passage of time, I wouldn’t. I have learned the immeasurable value of expanding my network beyond the confines of Ivy League institutions. I have discovered the profound meaning of building an inclusive community that embraces individuals from all walks of life. I have come to recognize that setbacks are valuable stepping stones on the path towards personal growth and success.
And now, as I prepare to share an exhilarating piece of news with you, I want you to remember this: you possess the power to shape your own reality. It is not defined by the rejections or setbacks you may encounter along the way. Embrace the present, because it holds within it countless opportunities and lessons waiting to be learned.
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