We all know the drill. As college rolls around we are expected to know exactly what we want to major/minor in, what organizations we’ll join and if and when we’ll study abroad. We enter freshman year expecting to have all these questions answered. But, turns out it’s harder than we think.

Unfortunately, a stigma exists that everyone between the ages of 18 and 22 is supposed to have it all figured out. Leading me to believe that everyone has it figured out but me. In reality the ones who seem to have it all figured out may just be in the same position as me. The phrase fake it till you make it, could not be more true in this instance.

After I finished my freshman year of college, I thought the millennials’ toughest question: “what do you want to do with your life?” would be answered. Nevertheless, I was met with the unfortunate reality---8 months in college would not give me all the answers. I didn’t have an epiphany, or a moment of relief after I finally discovered what it is I want to do with the rest of my life. The question was never answered after a lengthy career aptitude test, or a late night phone call with my parents.

Sure, I know what I want to major in, and will come out of college in 4 years with a degree. But, will I discover what exactly it is I want to do with that degree for the next 20+ years of my life? Probably not.

I don’t know what I want to do with my life, and if you don’t either, it’s OK. However, I do know one thing. The question which plagues me won’t be answered over night---it will take time. It may take me more time than others, but that's OK too. Not everyone is meant to follow the same path, and even if my friends have it all figured out, doesn't mean I have to.

It’s also important to recognize that change is inevitable. I don’t appreciate complete spontaneity, but I also don’t understand people who plan out every aspect of their lives. Why? Because my plan for the future changes each day. One day I say I wanna do one thing, and the next day, I change my mind. I have an idea, but I don’t have a set plan. I do know one thing though, and that’s, that in the future I want to be happy. If I love my first job right out of college, that’s great. If I don’t, that’s fine too.

Of course I want to be successful and make money (who doesn’t?). But, in order to be successful, I have to learn about myself first. I have to learn what it is I really want to do, without being pressured by society to pick a career out of a hat.

If you're in my position, take this advice. No matter where you are in life, career-wise, don't stress. Finding your passion may take time. Until then, stop worrying about the future, and comparing yourself to others and just live your life. Work hard, try new things, and you'll be just fine.

" I see my path, but I don't know where it leads. Not knowing where I'm going is what inspires me to travel it."

Rosalia de Castro