From Doubt to Triumph: My Journey Through Graduate School

I graduated from college with a 2.5 GPA and a 2.0 in my major. Most people don't know that towards the end of my senior year, I feared I wouldn't graduate because my school required a 2.0 in your major to do so. I managed to pull through by the skin of my teeth.

Despite my aspirations of attending postgraduate school, inspired by my mother who had a master's degree, my confidence was shaken when I graduated. Though I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology, was commissioned as an Army officer, and received various accolades including selection in Who’s Who Among American College and University Students, my confidence was low.

After working for two years, I decided to attend graduate school, but I was nervous about my ability to succeed. During my last year of college, I realized my study habits needed improvement. Changing these habits allowed me to finish my senior year productively, but I was still paranoid about my performance in graduate school. I knew I was smart, but I doubted my ability to excel at a higher level.

Graduate school provided the opportunity to reassert my capabilities. To my surprise, I performed very well, much better and more focused than during my undergraduate years. However, graduate school presented a new challenge: a comprehensive final exam covering all graduate-level classes in my program. This four-hour test was required for graduation, regardless of GPA.

A good friend, who had known me since undergraduate school, gave me the best piece of advice. She believed in my ability to rise to the challenge when it came time to prepare for an exam. Her confidence in me was a much-needed boost.

I took a week off from work to prepare, studying 8 to 10 hours a day. Despite my extensive preparation, I finished the exam in an hour and a half. Panic set in, thinking I must have done something wrong. I considered reviewing my answers but remembered my mother's words: "Your first instinct is usually your best instinct." Trusting this, I submitted my exam.

I mentally prepared myself to retake the exam, convinced I had failed. A week later, I was overjoyed to learn I had passed. Calling my mom to share the news, I felt a sense of accomplishment and validation. My master's degree proved to me that I was capable, even when I doubted myself.

My journey through graduate school was a crucial part of my life story. It validated my abilities and provided the confidence I needed. This experience was essential for me to realize my potential and achieve my goals.

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