Kaitlyn M.
If you’re reading this, be defined by the things that you love.
In college, it’s all too easy to feel confined by society’s expectations—to chase an image of the “perfect” college experience instead of discovering what genuinely fulfills you. We must be bold enough to find out who we are and what we love, and I believe that happens through making both right and wrong decisions.
Uncertainty is one of the most challenging feelings. During my sophomore year, I wrestled with the idea of leaving Clemson to intern in Washington, D.C. The thought terrified me—leaving my friends behind, starting a new job, and jumping into a new way of life. To make this difficult decision, I leaned into that discomfort. I let it strengthen my sense of self, my confidence, and my belief in my passions.
When life becomes difficult—when you feel lost, uncertain, or dependent on the approval of others—I urge you to lean into that uncertainty and allow it to shape you. Grow through it, and in doing so, grow into yourself. Upon graduation from Clemson this December, I am eager to return to Washington, D.C., to pursue a career that empowers me to make a meaningful impact, champion social change, and uplift those around me. I would have never discovered this sense of passion or confidence had I not chosen the road less traveled.
Thus, I realized that constantly chasing “cool” is a draining and unsustainable way to live. I urge you not to let the fear of fitting in or chasing an “ideal” life overshadow your dreams or the things you truly love. Instead, I challenge you to lead a life of gratitude, courage, and authenticity. The world is privileged to know you—so let it see the person you truly are.
In closing, I want to leave you with one of my favorite quotes: “And now that you don’t have to be perfect, you can be good.” This quote, one I remind myself of frequently, carries a quiet yet powerful sense of urgency. An urgency to take risks, make mistakes, follow your passions, speak the truth, and challenge the status quo. This, I believe, is how we begin to live a life defined by the things we love. It’s how I find happiness, content, grace, and goodness. I challenge you to do the same — to lean into the discomfort, to lean into the love, to lean into your most authentic self. If you’re reading this, be defined by the things that you love.
Kaitlyn M., Clemson University
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