When I came into college, I didn’t quite know what to expect. I knew that classes would be challenging, that it was important to get involved, and that one day I’d graduate and hopefully be prepared to find a job. But there was one thing that I truly didn’t think I’d encounter being at Texas A&M, the happiest college town in the country, and that’s the feeling that I wasn’t good enough.
Rejection is something I’ve faced a lot of in college, especially being at a university as competitive as Texas A&M. By the end of my sophomore year, I had lost count of the number of times that I’d receive an email with an opening line that read, “Thank you for your application, but we regret to inform you…” and close my computer in defeat every time.
I’ve been rejected from internships, part-time jobs, people, and more organizations that I can count. In my opinion, there is nothing more invalidating to your accomplishments than when you allow yourself to be vulnerable to a stranger and have them dismiss you right off the bat. However, after finally taking some time to reevaluate my situation, I decided to take a step back and realize that everything happens for a reason.
Here are some lessons I learned:
1. Have no shame and no regrets
Being upset with yourself for trying is the worst thing you could do. Be proud of the fact that you put yourself out there and never shame yourself, even if you fail.
2. Learn from your experience and improve
The best way to cope with rejection is to turn the negative into a positive. Maybe you weren’t as prepared for your interview as you thought you were or maybe you don’t quite have enough experience yet. Take all that you can from the experience and use it to improve yourself for next time. If we learned something from our rejection, then it was not a waste.
3. Try again
Just because it didn’t go well the first time doesn’t mean it can’t happen in the future! There is NO SHAME in applying for something multiple times. Organizations and employers like re-applicants because it shows your dedication and desire for earning your spot. Use it to your advantage and show them how much you’ve grown and always try again.
4. Rejection isn’t personal
Nothing harms your self-esteem more than sharing your accomplishments and highlights of your life with a stranger and essentially being told that you aren’t good enough. Believe me, I know the feeling. From their end, those decisions have to be made, and if you don’t make the cut, it’s nothing against you personally. Your accomplishments are still valid and you are still capable of doing anything you set your mind to, so don’t let it get to you! Rejection is a part of life and it happens to everyone.
5. Never underestimate the good that can come from the unexpected
Sometimes you’ll get rejected from something you really wanted and then later on realize it was a blessing in disguise. Believe in that! Think of the good that could come from not having to commit to something new. If you didn’t get into that organization, use your extra time to focus on school, family, friends, and the things that are important to you. Always try and find the best in a bad situation because it is always there.
6. Realize how awesome you are and don’t ever forget it!
Maybe the internship you always wanted didn’t work out or maybe that organization you tried so hard to get into just wasn’t your place. It always stings at first, but never forget how much you have accomplished. You will find your place and thrive wherever you end up, so believe in yourself and always try again.
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