Life is full of twists, turns, and unexpected detours. Sometimes, it feels like the doors we most want to walk through slam shut in our faces. But these moments of rejection and redirection can lead us to paths that are even more fulfilling and enriching than we could have imagined. I want to share a few personal experiences that highlight why you should never give up, even when faced with setbacks.
In high school, I was a varsity cheerleader for two years. I loved every moment of it—the camaraderie, the spirit, the thrill of performing. So, when I didn’t make the team my senior year, I was devastated. I couldn’t understand why. It felt like my world had come crashing down. But that wasn’t the end of my story.
I was also involved in a club called Family Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), formerly known as Future Homemakers of America. Two of my peers had served as state officers for this organization. Watching them, I found the courage to run for Alabama State President. With the support of my family, school, and the FCCLA members across Alabama, I was elected state president. What an amazing experience it was! I traveled, met other state officers, and spoke to students about how FCCLA had shaped me as an individual. This opportunity allowed me to grow in ways I never could have imagined and set the stage for future successes.
Fast forward to my undergraduate years, where I faced another setback. I was assigned to complete practicum hours at a school, but when I arrived, I overheard an administrator say she was saving her good teachers for students from another school in the area. This was a painful moment, especially because the comment was due to me attending a historically black college and university (HBCU). Hurt and disappointed, I called the field experience officer. Thankfully, the situation was resolved, and I was placed with an amazing educator. This experience taught me resilience and the importance of advocating for myself.
Later, when applying for doctoral programs, I encountered another challenge. One program required a writing piece as part of the admissions process. I was excited about the opportunity, but then I received an email expressing concerns about my writing skills, based on whether I had completed a capstone project in my previous graduate program. The implication that my writing was subpar was crushing. Meeting with the professors only reinforced my feeling that this was not the right place for me. They talked down to me, and I left feeling disheartened.
I shared my concerns with someone I trusted, who told me about the Educational Leadership program at Auburn University. I decided to apply. I completed all the necessary requirements, had an interview, and shortly after, I was accepted into the program. This program was exactly where I was supposed to be. It boosted my confidence, expanded my professional network, strengthened my academic skills, and stretched me in ways I had never anticipated. In March 2022, I proudly earned my Doctor of Philosophy in Administration and Supervision of Curriculum.
These experiences taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, resilience, and the importance of not giving up. When one door closes, another one opens. Rejection is not the end; it’s a redirection to something better. Whether you’re facing academic, professional, or personal challenges, remember that setbacks are setups for comebacks.
Never give up! There will be bumps in the road and people who may not believe you deserve a seat at the table. But don’t quit. Your perseverance and determination will lead you to the right path, one that is even more fulfilling and rewarding than you ever imagined. Keep pushing forward, and embrace the journey with all its twists and turns. You never know where it might lead you!
