Lectures may be confusing, and you’re breathless from how your mind races, trying to keep up with your subject content. As days pass, your interest in the course you thought was for you is fizzling. Just months ago, you had so many ideas and heart-fuelling dreams of where you wanted to be and had the energy to do what it took to get there. But you feel stuck, unsure, and inadequate. I see you.
Aside from being in school to fulfill that seeming requirement of life and because your parents insist it’s something you do, I hope you grow to realise how valuable and essential education is. There are some things about school that I think back on, Pythagoras’ theorem being one. I wonder about its relevance, but education is so worth it. It has expanded my thinking, made meaningful friendships, opened doors, given me some grounding in how the world works, and more. So, to remind you, your education and path have meaning for you and the world. You’re not just anybody doing some random thing. You’re intentionally created and have gifts, strengths, and more that will solve problems for your sphere of influence and the world. Real talk.
“. . .but education is so worth it. It has expanded my thinking, made meaningful friendships, opened doors, given me some grounding in how the world works, and more.”
While there are many solutions to feeling stuck, unsure and inadequate, etc., there is one lasting solution that can meet several. You could get a new fancy planner (as a stationery lover, I highly recommend it!), go for a motivational workshop, and have your dreams come back flooding in your heart. These are great and go a long way, but do you know one thing you should consider? Mentorship.
“Mentoring is a brain to pick, an ear to listen, and a push in the right direction.” — John Crosby.
I remember wanting mentorship while I doubted whether science was for me, feeling inadequate and not knowing what opportunities to take. It’s something we all silently crave but don’t know how to find, ask and receive. The Student’s Friend (TSF) is doing something about this problem.
At TSF, we match mentees with mentors based on indicated interests and aims. Mentors work through a programme to guide students. You can check out the programme here. Through the sessions, you have consistent hand-holding as you navigate academics and career, you get to see that clarity is possible, and definite reminders that the opportunities you want and need do exist. You get help to find these opportunities, find the strength to explore your interests and plot a path in the right direction.
What are you waiting for? We’re a click away.
by Oluwatoni Akinola
