The Power of Determination

When I first started my journey as a mature student, I was filled with excitement, nerves, and hope. Going back to university after taking time away was a big step for me, and I was ready to dive into new opportunities. But early on, during one of my first meetings with an academic advisor, I was told something I’ll never forget:

“You’re probably just not cut out for higher education.”

Those words hit me like a punch to the gut. I remember leaving that office feeling small, doubting myself, and wondering if I was making a mistake. Was I really not capable of this? Did I belong here?

But something inside me refused to believe it. That moment could have been the end of my academic story, but instead, it became the spark that fueled my determination.

Fast forward to last night, and I walked across the stage, receiving my second bachelor’s degree. It wasn’t always easy—there were long nights, challenges, moments of self-doubt, and more than a few tears along the way. But I made it. And it wasn’t just about proving that advisor wrong. It was about proving something to myself.

Don’t Let Others Diminish Your Goals

Throughout life, you’ll encounter people who doubt your abilities—sometimes subtly, sometimes bluntly. And it hurts, especially when those doubts come from people in positions of authority. But here’s the thing: other people’s opinions don’t define your potential.

Had I listened to that advisor, I might have never made it past my first semester. I might have packed up my dreams and settled for something easier. But I didn’t. And you don’t have to either.

Whatever goals you have—whether it’s going back to school, starting a business, writing a book, or chasing a dream you’ve carried for years—don’t let anyone convince you that it’s not possible. Your journey is yours alone, and you have every right to pursue it.

The Lessons I’ve Learned Along the Way

Here are a few things I’ve learned through my academic journey that I hope will encourage you if you’re chasing your own dreams:

1. Determination Matters More Than Talent.
   You don’t have to be the smartest person in the room. You just have to keep showing up, doing the work, and believing in yourself.

2. You’ll Have Setbacks—And That’s Okay.
   Failure, rejection, and tough days are all part of the process. Learn from them, but don’t let them define you.

3. Surround Yourself with Support.
   Find people who believe in you, cheer you on, and remind you why you started. And if you can’t find that support externally, be your own cheerleader.

4. Progress Is More Important Than Perfection.
   Some days will be messy. Some semesters won’t go as planned. But as long as you keep moving forward, you’re winning.

A Message to Anyone Who’s Been Doubted

If you’ve ever been told that you’re not capable, that your dreams are too big, or that you don’t belong—this is your reminder to keep going. You have everything you need within you to achieve your goals, and the only opinion that truly matters is the one you hold about yourself.

There will be people who don’t understand your journey, and that’s okay. But your journey is valid, and your dreams are worth chasing.

Celebrating the Wins—Big and Small

Graduating with this second degree is one of the proudest moments of my life, not just because of the achievement itself, but because of everything it represents—resilience, growth, and self-belief. It’s proof that you are more capable than you think, even when others don’t see it.

If you’re in the middle of a challenge right now, wondering if it’s worth it, I hope this post serves as a reminder that you are capable, you are worthy, and you can absolutely do this.

And when you reach the other side—when you achieve that goal, finish that project, or cross that stage—take a moment to celebrate how far you’ve come.

Because, trust me, it’s worth it.

Warmly,

Jessica