I am a control freak by definition, so basically everything has to according to plan or a panic attack will ensue. I've spent a large majority of my life completely convinced of the path I wanted for my life: go to college, become a working actor, get married, etc. etc. Nothing made me more excited than the notion of going to University to finally work towards something--my career. I auditioned for the acting program at my school of choice and lo and behold, I didn't get in. I decided to go anyway. I could always reaudition and I did--I didn't get in. In fact, I didn't make it five times. I found myself lost, sad, confused and angry all at the same time. This wasn't how it was supposed to go. None of these rejections and let downs were supposed to happen.
I was dating someone my first semester of college, and that relationship ended rather quickly. That wasn't supposed to happen. I was supposed to be fall in love and be happy with him for a long time, but instead, we went our separate ways. So amongst all of my other feelings, I found myself heartbroken. "Where do I go from here?" "What I do now?" were common questions that haunted my thoughts day in and day out.
It wasn't until this summer that I rediscovered my passion for acting and art while also finding a new passion for politics. I'm now a double major and I couldn't be happier. Sure, I get stressed with such a heavy class load, but for the first time in a while, I feel accomplished. I feel motivated, passionate, and determined to make my dreams a reality. I wouldn't be where I am without my constant support system. I wouldn't be here without the people who repeatedly told me what I could and couldn't do.
In the end, I've learned that nothing ever really goes "according to plan." One minute you're on your way to the Grand Canyon and instead find yourself at the Gemini Giant; it doesn't mean the adventure was any less fun just because you didn't end up where you said you would be. In fact, I would argue that some of the best adventures are the ones we never even think of for ourselves. So, in essence, let your hair down, smell the roses, and take in all the wonder this world has to offer. You'll always end up where you need to be.