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If you could change anything about your high school outcome, what would it be and why?
Lots of people often regret certain decisions after high school, so what do you wish you could change?
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57 answers
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Laura’s Answer
Listen to your heart and stay true to yourself. Don't let others convince you to choose a path simply because you excel in a certain area.
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Chujun (Joyce)’s Answer
First, ask yourself what your current objective is.
Next, embrace who you are and remember that the past is behind you, regardless of the outcome.
Starting now, establish well-defined goals and take small, manageable steps (baby steps) to advance toward your aspirations.
Remind yourself, "I am one-of-a-kind, I am exceptional!"
Next, embrace who you are and remember that the past is behind you, regardless of the outcome.
Starting now, establish well-defined goals and take small, manageable steps (baby steps) to advance toward your aspirations.
Remind yourself, "I am one-of-a-kind, I am exceptional!"
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Paul E.’s Answer
I truly wish I devoted more time into figuring out what I was passionate about. Often times, we try so hard to be well rounded in order to show that we are ideal candidates for a particular university, or school. That can sometimes result in not knowing which road to take. While being well-rounded is important, it is equally important to self-reflect and understand what it truly is that drives you and what you are passionate about. This will help you to make clear cut decisions regarding career goals. Work will not seem like work. You will feel more satisfied with your progress and it will lead to a better quality of life.
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Vincent’s Answer
Begin contemplating your individual and professional objectives. I limited myself by applying solely to one college, the local one (UW). I now wish I had considered various alternatives, including institutions beyond my state's borders. Although I had a positive and fruitful experience, I believe I could have developed further by expanding my horizons and attending out-of-state schools.
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Amy’s Answer
I would seize the opportunity to enroll in one highly demanding course, pushing myself beyond my comfort zone for growth and development.
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Thomas’s Answer
I was the definition of anti-social in high school and regret everything because of it. I now am quite social but needed to relearn how to actually be social after years of basically locking myself in my room, Turing the lights off, and binge watching tv shows and movies.
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Krishma’s Answer
One of the things in high school that I didn't do was explore more of my own interests and gain more skills. I made sure that I applied to more scholarships and I had high grades, so always prioritize that. However, if you have some extra time, then pay attention to what you truly enjoy doing. Some things that you can do are:
Dedicate a day to do what you enjoy doing, or try new things.
Gain a new skill like playing an instrument or learning a new language.
Try doing new activities such as cooking or swimming.
Take a college credit course in high school.
Krishma recommends the following next steps:
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Justin’s Answer
Research as many career options as you can and reach out to people in the field who are currently in those careers to ask them questions about their occupation. Try to target some of the career options that are of top interest to do an internship or brief job shadow for a couple days to get some insight on what a day in the life of that occupation would be like. Then you can pivot to targeting what you need to do to be able to hold that occupation (e.g., attending university, obtaining specialized training for a certification, etc.).
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Andres’s Answer
If I could alter anything about my high school journey, I would have placed greater emphasis on academics during my early years. As a freshman, my thoughts were not on pursuing higher education, but rather on enjoying myself and merely scraping by with the least effort possible.
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Peter’s Answer
Get involved in clubs! Even if you did not think that club would be something you are typically interested in. Get in, give it a shot, and try to volunteer for leadership roles.
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Kosov’s Answer
One improvement would be to gain a deeper comprehension of how specific classes and the effort you invest can bring you nearer to your desired career path. This could be achieved by seeking guidance from a family member who works in a field you're interested in or by consulting a school counselor for advice.
Additionally, if you have a favorite sport or hobby, it's important to explore these interests during high school. This could potentially lead to earning a sports scholarship or joining a group where you can connect with like-minded individuals, making your career journey more enjoyable and collaborative.
Find a mentor to help with your Highschool course decisions (school guidance counsellor or relative that works in a field your like)
Explore sports scholarship or groups further to explore your passions.
Additionally, if you have a favorite sport or hobby, it's important to explore these interests during high school. This could potentially lead to earning a sports scholarship or joining a group where you can connect with like-minded individuals, making your career journey more enjoyable and collaborative.
Kosov recommends the following next steps:
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Ann’s Answer
I would have read a lot more books and gotten involved with more extracurricular activities. You never realize how important foundational education is (and the social aspects) until later in life.
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amie’s Answer
I would have participated in more job shadowing experiences to gain a better understanding of the daily routines and career paths of various professions before selecting a college or major. This would have helped me avoid feeling unprepared and unaware of what to expect in my chosen field.
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Eric’s Answer
This isn't a regret but a lesson learned: devote time to self-reflection and examination to know yourself more deeply, and then make decisions based on your passions and priorities. It's simple to unknowingly focus on blending in or maintaining the status quo, but life becomes much more rewarding when you can genuinely be yourself.
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Thereze’s Answer
I would focus on developing friendships and connections with others. Often times, it is hard to make new friends as an adult after high school, so take the time to cherish the people you meet to last a lifetime.
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Oscar’s Answer
Savor the present moment, as I often found myself in high school eagerly anticipating adulthood and the liberties it would bring. Reflecting upon it, high school represents one of the final stages in life with minimal obligations and responsibilities. So, make the most of this time and embrace every opportunity for enjoyment.
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Joseph’s Answer
I would stay in touch with more people - friends, teachers, mentors, counselors. Basically, people who played a significant role in my life throughout the HS journey should have a place in your network.
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Terrence’s Answer
Never be satisfied with just being comfortable; always push past your comfort zone! I've often missed out on chances that came my way because I was too content with my current situation. By constantly pushing yourself to explore new experiences, you'll be the one to uncover a world full of thrilling possibilities!
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Kimberly’s Answer
As a first-generation Latina graduate, looking back, I wish I had prioritized my career earlier during high school instead of getting sidetracked. Growing up in a family where no one had attended college or even considered it, I lacked the knowledge and guidance to make informed choices. Consequently, my high school performance suffered, with poor grades and average SAT scores. However, after graduating, I took the initiative to enroll in community college, expecting it to be similar to high school. To my pleasant surprise, the college provided the support I needed to discover a love for learning. If only I had pursued a dual enrollment opportunity with the community college, I could have experienced that support sooner and been more academically advanced in high school.
Additionally, I regret not following my passion and instead succumbing to others' expectations. While I initially pursued a nursing degree, I eventually realized my true interest lay in psychology research. Reflecting on my journey, I wish I had listened to my heart from the beginning and pursued a path aligned with my true passions.
Overall, my experience as a first-generation Latina graduate has taught me the value of early career exploration, seeking guidance, and staying true to one's passions. Though I may have taken a less conventional path, I am grateful for the lessons learned and the newfound fulfillment I have found in psychology research.
Additionally, I regret not following my passion and instead succumbing to others' expectations. While I initially pursued a nursing degree, I eventually realized my true interest lay in psychology research. Reflecting on my journey, I wish I had listened to my heart from the beginning and pursued a path aligned with my true passions.
Overall, my experience as a first-generation Latina graduate has taught me the value of early career exploration, seeking guidance, and staying true to one's passions. Though I may have taken a less conventional path, I am grateful for the lessons learned and the newfound fulfillment I have found in psychology research.
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Garrett’s Answer
As others have mentioned, enjoy the moment and the transition to college, it is a great opportunity to make new friends and have fun. Even if it is your last year in High School, do not be afraid to try new things and meet new people through a club or joining a sports/musical team. At the same time, do not feel like you have to have all the answers to your future now. Your interest and friends will likely change over time and you can even get a fresh start at college and really learn to be yourself. As far as academics go, definitely always try your best and research some strategies on how to stay on top of your assignments and methods of studying that will suit your lifestyle. Do not harp on any bad grades you might receive but rather learn from the situation and think of ways that you can be more prepared for next time. Life is long journey and don't be afraid to push your comfort zone a bit because you never know what good can come of it!
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Arun’s Answer
Audrey, high school was truly the highlight of my life. I wouldn't alter a single detail. It taught me valuable lessons like:
- Developing self-discipline
- Being a good listener
- Creating lasting friendships
- Discovering my strengths
- Identifying areas for growth
- Uncovering my passions in various subjects
- Cherishing unforgettable moments with friends
If given the opportunity to relive my school days, I would embrace it wholeheartedly.
- Developing self-discipline
- Being a good listener
- Creating lasting friendships
- Discovering my strengths
- Identifying areas for growth
- Uncovering my passions in various subjects
- Cherishing unforgettable moments with friends
If given the opportunity to relive my school days, I would embrace it wholeheartedly.
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Megan’s Answer
1) Don't make college decisions based on where your friends are going to college. There are so many opportunities to grow and network in college. Seize the opportunity to get out of your comfort zone
2) College classes get harder as you progress. Don't slack on hours freshman year as you will benefit from the flexibility later.
3) HAVE FUN! These years are challenging but there are ways to work hard and still have fun.
2) College classes get harder as you progress. Don't slack on hours freshman year as you will benefit from the flexibility later.
3) HAVE FUN! These years are challenging but there are ways to work hard and still have fun.
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Rishabh’s Answer
To make the most of your high school learning experience, it's crucial to grasp the practical applications of theoretical concepts beyond the classroom. For instance, I used to struggle with math because it focused mainly on theories and proofs instead of real-world applications. However, during my undergraduate, graduate studies, and current job, I've discovered how these concepts are used in practical situations with real-life impacts. Seeing how statistics can be applied to data science and coding has been an incredibly fulfilling aspect of utilizing mathematical concepts.
This experience has not only allowed me to delve deeper into the subject matter but also sparked a newfound love and curiosity for it.
This experience has not only allowed me to delve deeper into the subject matter but also sparked a newfound love and curiosity for it.
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Adrianna’s Answer
What I would change about my high school outcome is knowing that while extra circulars and academics are important - it's good to focus on what energizes you, what makes you happy and to learn to take care of yourself mentally and physically. The foundation of living a healthy, happy and successful life can be attributed to learning what makes you happy and what you are passionate about and try to incorporate that in your everyday life. Once you build that foundation, all other factors like career and building a life will come together more smoothly.
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Ryan’s Answer
If I had the chance to go back, I would likely have participated more in various aspects of my community. This would have helped me discover my interests and what I wanted to do after finishing high school. I would have tried not to be content with how things were and actively put in the effort to put myself in a position to have better opportunities. When it came to applying for colleges, I didn't have many achievements to showcase. I was also unsure about my preferred major, so I let the opinions of my parents and friends guide my choices. However, it's essential to make these decisions independently, as you're the one who will live with the results in the future.
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Kimberly’s Answer
I would have engaged in more extracurricular activities and ventured beyond my comfort zone to explore new experiences.
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Justin’s Answer
I believe I wouldn't alter a great deal about the outcome of my actions in high school, except for being more sociable and less self-aware. Honestly, I'd adopt the same mindset in college, too. The sooner you realize that people don't care as much about your self-perception, the simpler it becomes to embrace new experiences. I was my toughest critic, and I'd like to remind myself not to be excessively harsh on myself. It's alright if I make mistakes, since that's an integral part of life.
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Harkarn’s Answer
I would probably devote more time to socializing and sports. Sometimes it may feel like you need to get the best grades to get into the good school, but there's always a path, no matter what type of student you are.
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Lucas’s Answer
Personally, I would have put more energy into building my connections and improving my social abilities. I was consistently very committed to my studies, and I believe that I didn't truly cultivate some of my most essential social skills until college.
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John’s Answer
This is a great question. I find it important to not look back at what at events that you would want to change. It is really important to look at events that you have been through as an opportunity to learn from. You will find along your journey there are all kinds of things that you may look back and think you would have liked to change what happen. I would challenge you to find what lesson you can learn from that situation and apply to your path moving forward.
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Valeria’s Answer
I would have relaxed a bit more and not put so much pressure on myself to take on every single opportunity offered to me. When you graduate high school, you're still young and should enjoy it. Sometimes it's ok to take a break, especially if you're an overachiever like I was because you risk burning out pretty bad.
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Erika’s Answer
Hello Audrey!
Terrific inquiry! I would have concentrated more on my personal growth and steered clear of unimportant distractions. I would have seized the opportunity to enroll in highly sought-after programming and development classes, and applied for numerous internships. Remember to be kind to myself.
Terrific inquiry! I would have concentrated more on my personal growth and steered clear of unimportant distractions. I would have seized the opportunity to enroll in highly sought-after programming and development classes, and applied for numerous internships. Remember to be kind to myself.
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Michael’s Answer
I truly wish I had devoted more time to exploring my interests. As a freshman, I chose a major and career, only to find myself dissatisfied with that decision within a decade. My suggestion is to invest time in experimenting with various activities to uncover your true interests and passions, and then pursue them wholeheartedly.
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Ana’s Answer
I would have focused on being more present and I would have started to focus on my well-being more.
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Kavita’s Answer
Trust me, this life doesn't come back, so apart from focusing on studies, take out extra time to socialize with people, build your network, do extra- curricular activities.
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Thaddeus’s Answer
I would have focused more on taking AP classes that aligned with my strengths so I could increase my GPA to make my transcript to look better for applying to college, even if the classes weren't exactly aligned with my interests.
I would have used my time outside of school to explore my interests more, regardless of what everyone else is doing or claims is the "way to do things". I was more into tech stuff but played soccer because that's what everyone else was doing. If I were to do it all over again, I would have taken more tech courses and attended clubs that aligned with my interests after class... being a pro soccer player was never exactly in the cards
I would have used my time outside of school to explore my interests more, regardless of what everyone else is doing or claims is the "way to do things". I was more into tech stuff but played soccer because that's what everyone else was doing. If I were to do it all over again, I would have taken more tech courses and attended clubs that aligned with my interests after class... being a pro soccer player was never exactly in the cards
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Jhanvi’s Answer
I would absolutely make an effort to discover new things beyond my current interests. Like when I was in high school, I thought I'd pursue a STEM career, so I only chose STEM courses. It would've been super helpful to try out business, art, or other classes to broaden my horizons and find out what I genuinely liked!
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Samantha’s Answer
I would have definitely enrolled in more courses that I had an interest in rather than just doing the basic courses to graduated! I would have also with I had not overthink things as much as I did - everyone is in the same boat as you!
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Chia Yueh’s Answer
I'd encourage you to step outside your cozy bubble. It can be challenging to leave your comfort zone, but that's how you expand it – by taking those first steps beyond its boundaries.
Take some time to explore your desires and interests for the future. This will be super helpful when choosing your career path.
Wishing you all the best!
Take some time to explore your desires and interests for the future. This will be super helpful when choosing your career path.
Wishing you all the best!
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Sean’s Answer
My answer, in a single word, would be focus. There are a lot of distractions in high school: social interactions, cliques, sports, clubs, etc. It's fine to be part of things outside of the academics, but my recommendation would be to not lose focus on the core reason you're in high school in the first place: you are building an academic foundation that you'll carry with you into advanced schooling and/or the workforce. The tendency at times, for some subjects and activities, is to say "I will never need that". Don't be too sure. Many aspects of mathematics, reading comprehension, writing, geography, etc. at some point can come into play in any career or social setting. Having a good foundation makes you more well rounded and capable for a multitude of things that might come up in life. Don't get too hung up on the petty things that come with high school, stay focused on the core and you should do well.
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Michael’s Answer
Fantastic question! They often say, "The past teaches us valuable lessons."
I would never have doubted my abilities in any situation! There are no limits to what a person can achieve!
I would never have doubted my abilities in any situation! There are no limits to what a person can achieve!
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Bianca’s Answer
I'd enjoy myself more. I used to concentrate so much on school and securing a college scholarship that I frequently missed out on entertaining activities.
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Stephanie’s Answer
Great question! My high school experience was very performance-driven: I prioritized good grades, community service, internships, part-time jobs, and learning what major I potentially would want to choose in college. In hindsight, I wish I was more open-minded and prioritized having fun. Becoming more open to new experiences would've helped my confidence, exposure, and overall enjoyment of high school. Adding fun as a priority would've helped to create life-long friendships and core memories earlier on in my experience.
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Neda’s Answer
In retrospect, I would have put more consideration into the career trajectory I wanted to have before choosing a college major. I also would have made more decisions based on my personal aspirations, rather than external, familial, or societal pressures and expectations.
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Bayo’s Answer
Excellent inquiry. Becoming more engaged in various pursuits to discover my unique path is something I would alter. Nobody ought to be limited to a specific field. Follow your heart and pursue your passions, and you'll be on the right track.
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John’s Answer
I would focus more intently in the class that I initially believed was unimportant. Reflecting on the past, I realize I missed numerous chances because I deemed them worthless. Nevertheless, even if something appears insignificant at first, it might alter your interests or viewpoints in the long run. In the end, a missed opportunity could have a profound impact on your life.
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Shakira’s Answer
Explore various schools and career options on your own, rather than simply following suggestions from counselors, friends, or family members. Remember, this is your life, and if you discover that a choice isn't right for you, you can always make adjustments down the road!
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Eileen’s Answer
- Seek out a mentor who can offer valuable guidance for your college journey.
- Prepare in advance by creating a list of possible interests and exploring them through research.
- After discovering your future passion, dig deeper into the steps needed to achieve it, such as earning a college degree or completing training on other platforms. Look into any necessary qualifications or requirements.
- Prepare in advance by creating a list of possible interests and exploring them through research.
- After discovering your future passion, dig deeper into the steps needed to achieve it, such as earning a college degree or completing training on other platforms. Look into any necessary qualifications or requirements.
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Chris’s Answer
My biggest regret is thinking that following what your peer group is doing will lead to success.
Following what your peers are doing only leads you towards doing exactly what they're doing. Which works if that is your goal.
BUT, if you want to achieve your own career goals, or achieve success in how you define it (which is always a bit different for everyone, as we all have different goals), then I've learned its important to embrace those things and/or ideas about you that make you stand out from the crowd!
Its okay to have different opinions than everyone else. It is okay to have a different career path than everyone else. It is okay to want a career path that is different than everyone else. That's how new ideas, and new opportunities are developed in the first place!
So in short; listen to your gut. Stay true to who you are.
Following what your peers are doing only leads you towards doing exactly what they're doing. Which works if that is your goal.
BUT, if you want to achieve your own career goals, or achieve success in how you define it (which is always a bit different for everyone, as we all have different goals), then I've learned its important to embrace those things and/or ideas about you that make you stand out from the crowd!
Its okay to have different opinions than everyone else. It is okay to have a different career path than everyone else. It is okay to want a career path that is different than everyone else. That's how new ideas, and new opportunities are developed in the first place!
So in short; listen to your gut. Stay true to who you are.
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Frank’s Answer
Do not be afraid to take chances and risks. Be true to yourself and take different classes to see what you like / enjoy!
I hope this helps!
-Frank
I hope this helps!
-Frank
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Alisa’s Answer
I was so focused on doing well in school and preparing for college that I didn't spend time enjoying high school. I look back now and wish I had attended more events, spent more time with friends, and lived in the moment. You have the rest of your life to grow up and gain more responsibility, but you can't relive being a kid. I would tell my younger self that you can still do well in school while having fun and enjoying life.
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Ashley’s Answer
I wish that I acted more on my interests instead of being scared of the road it would take to achieve them and therefore not actually partaking in things that were of interest to me. If you are interested in a club, class, job, etc, don't let the fear of applying, interviewing, learning a new skills prohibit you from trying your best to achieve it. The only thing you will regret looking back is passing by the opportunity all together.
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Rose’s Answer
I definitely would have enrolled in a broader range of courses versus taking ones that I thought were fun, interesting or interactive. I would have doubled up on courses and attended through the summer to graduate early to jump start my career sooner.
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Kishan’s Answer
If I could make a couple of changes, I'd try to apply for more scholarships and perhaps read a bit more, getting more involved in it. Other than that, I'm quite pleased with the choices I've made up to this point.
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Swathika’s Answer
Hello Audrey,
I strongly advise you to carve out some quiet moments for yourself, to truly listen to your inner voice. It's important to thoroughly investigate and deeply understand yourself before you make any career decisions, as these choices are among the most significant ones you'll make in your life. Speaking from personal experience, I've encountered numerous challenges due to a single misstep. Therefore, I sincerely hope that you invest considerable thought and passion into any life-changing decisions, particularly regarding your career. Thank you for posing such a thought-stimulating question, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
I strongly advise you to carve out some quiet moments for yourself, to truly listen to your inner voice. It's important to thoroughly investigate and deeply understand yourself before you make any career decisions, as these choices are among the most significant ones you'll make in your life. Speaking from personal experience, I've encountered numerous challenges due to a single misstep. Therefore, I sincerely hope that you invest considerable thought and passion into any life-changing decisions, particularly regarding your career. Thank you for posing such a thought-stimulating question, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
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Leila’s Answer
Enjoy the time you are in! Dont worry too much about being an adult- that will come. Enjoy the freedom to learn, grow and socialize full time. It is such a special time and you dont need to rush it!
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Mahera’s Answer
I would have embraced an open-minded approach and enrolled in various courses prior to choosing a career in engineering. I would have ventured further to discover my true passion.