Academic terror. Sheer intimidation. My first day of Origins, I considered dropping out of the University Honors Program. Was I smart enough to be here? Could I get high enough grades? Could I contribute thoughtfully to discussion? These were the doubts rushing through my mind.
I was surrounded by brilliant peers discussing their desire to be the next generation of philosophers. The professor asked weighty philosophical questions, and the students had profound thoughts on modernity, philosophy, and society.
I had never read an original philosophical text in my life.
Though only a few semesters ago, I was misguided in my intimidation. After becoming more immersed in the UHP community, I am now able to recognize the importance of self-reflection rather than comparison.
Chances are, I’m not going to be the smartest person in the room, the most well-read, or most well-educated. But, there is one thing I can control; I can always be the hardest working.
Instead of becoming frustrated with the vast intellect of my peers or their quick grasp of concepts, I focus only on my level of effort.
By re-centering my focus on personal work ethic, I can curb frustrations that often arise from comparison. I can’t control the grades I will get on a paper or exam relative to my peers, but if I am confident in the time and work I put into studying, I should be satisfied with the outcome.
This mindset has not only allowed me to succeed in my academics but also in my internships. Rather than accepting the status-quo of other interns, I prioritize my individual effort. Being proud of my attitude and the work I complete allows me to thrive in a workplace environment.
Whether in Origins classes or internships, if I’m proud of the effort I invest, I have no other choice than to be content with the result. As UHP students, it is normal to fret over the brilliance of our peers. But, recognizing that we are all selected as unique and valued members of this community is essential in becoming the best versions of ourselves.
