In my journey from the foothills of Nepal to the bustling streets of Canada, each step echoes with the dreams of my family and the aspirations of my homeland. As an international student navigating the maze of education and culture, I have always believed in the power of education to transform lives, and my decision to study abroad was driven by a desire to broaden my horizons and pursue opportunities that were not readily available in my home country. From the humble roots of my upbringing comes this unwavering will to carve an effective path and effectively blend opportunity and struggle to create a rich tapestry of professional growth.

My academic journey began with a focus on social work, driven by a passion for creating positive change in my community. However, I realized the importance of adapting to new environments and seizing opportunities for growth. This led me to explore the field of project management, recognizing its relevance and demand in today’s globalized world. That was when I decided to take a giant leap out of my comfort zone, Canada! Transitioning to a new field of study was not without its challenges. I had to immerse myself in unfamiliar concepts and methodologies, often feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information. Here, I have a story to share!

On the first day of class, I felt a knot of anxiety tighten in my stomach. During the introduction round, my classmates confidently listed their impressive credentials – master’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees in IT and engineering, coupled with years of industry experience ranging from three to twenty years. When it was my turn to speak, I hesitated, feeling like an imposter in comparison. “I was an RJ at a small local radio station,” I began, my voice trembling slightly. “I also did some volunteering.” Starting that day, stepping into a classroom filled with classmates who were already highly skilled in their field of expertise, was something difficult for me. It seemed more difficult than leaving home with two suitcases filled with dreams. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of insecurity and inadequacy. While they effortlessly discussed complex concepts and shared their extensive industry experience, I found myself grappling with feelings of self-doubt and apprehension. One particularly difficult moment stands out in my memory – a phone call to my Baba, tears streaming down my face, as I said, “I can’t do this. This isn’t for me.” His reassuring words echoed through the receiver, “You got this. Believe in yourself.” Though his words provided a temporary sense of solace, the fear of failure continued to loom large in my mind. 

Presentations have always been my Achilles’ heel. Even now, my voice quivers, and my mind goes blank when it’s my turn to present. I meticulously prepare, rehearse, and yet, when the moment arrives, it’s as if all my hard work evaporates into thin air. But, amidst these challenges, I hold onto the hope of ongoing professional growth. Every day, I push myself a little further, embracing the discomfort and learning from my mistakes. I remind myself that progress is not always linear, and setbacks are just opportunities for growth.

Recently, I have started to explore the power of networking as a catalyst for growth and advancement. Networking, I have come to realize, is not just about exchanging business cards, or connecting on social media; it is about forging genuine relationships, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for collaboration and mutual growth. In the realm of professional development, networking serves as a cornerstone for success. It opens doors to new possibilities, exposes us to different perspectives, and allows us to leverage the collective wisdom of our peers. As an international student, I am acutely aware of the importance of building a strong professional network, not only for my personal advancement but also as a means of fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.

Every interaction, whether it be a coffee chat with a fellow student or a networking event with industry professionals, presents an opportunity for growth and learning. I approach each encounter with humility, curiosity, and a genuine desire to connect with others. I am not just seeking to further my own interests; rather, I am invested in building meaningful relationships that transcend boundaries and create a sense of community and belonging.

As I continue my journey towards professional development, I envision a future where I can look back at this journey with pride, knowing that I persevered through the doubts and insecurities. One day, I’ll stand before an audience, my voice steady and my confidence unwavering, and say, “I did it.” Until then, I’ll continue to strive for excellence, knowing that each small step forward brings me closer to my goals.

Image Reference

https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/12219-in-pursuit-of-excellence