The thrilling passion I had for art was initially realized during my first year of undergraduate studies. My conversation with a friend who created movie scripts, at that time, only sparked a love that blossomed. At first, I was unsure of my own desires or preferences. When I originally took the Jamb (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) exam, I chose physiotherapy as my first choice, but I failed the university admission exam (Post UTME).
The second time around, I chose chemical engineering, but I still wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to accomplish with my life. Nevertheless, I put a lot of effort into studying and did very well.
I continue to be completely obsessed with art even though I am in my fourth year of studying chemical engineering. I have an intense love for things because I am a very passionate person. As a result, I find it challenging to commit to projects in which I have little interest. However, if I put my mind to it, I think I can be and do anything I desire. If I make the decision to run for president today and I am certain that is what God wants from me, I will pursue that choice with confidence. But in Nigeria, where millions of people would rather elect a drug lord as president than an upright guy, this fantasy would never come true.
I once read a book that said switching occupations later in life to a completely unrelated field didn’t mean the previous job was a waste of time. In fact, it will set you apart from others and benefit you much in your next job pursuit. That was a turning point in how I approached my interests and my current course of study in school. As a result, I give my chemical engineering degree my all. I aim to have a very good grade regardless of the little interest I have in it.
I approach my academics with the same intensity I would with my passions, since it is what I should be doing at this moment. According to my philosophy, life is predetermined, and the only person who can prevent you from becoming what you were meant to be is you.
Life unfolds in stages, and where you are right now determines where your life will go. Therefore, the fact that you are doing something you dislike does not excuse your carefree attitude toward it. My personal guiding principle is to do things well to the best of my ability once I begin a task.
I constantly have to tell myself that it’s okay when I feel overwhelmed by the desire to be somewhere other than where I am. Although I do not dwell on it, it is completely fine to desire to pursue my passions.
One way to not feel overwhelmed all the time is to map out a plan for the next 10 years of your life, because according to statistics, it takes at least ten years to develop an excellent career. Describe what you aim to accomplish each year and how you plan to do it in detail. Remember that these plans are made for you and you are not made for them so you can be as flexible as possible.
All of these things won’t stop your mind from wandering occasionally, and fear may seep in, but they do prevent you from lingering because they serve as a reminder of your destination.
I ask that you have patience and kindness toward yourself. You are exceptional because you are the only person to ever walk the face of the earth. I am so eager for you to develop into your full potential.
Don’t stop at the sky; aim for the galaxies in your dreams.
~Joan
