Ever since I was little, I have always put my full heart and soul into everything I do. My parents and sister have labeled me as a perfectionist for as long as I can remember, but it's something I take great pride in. I consider my hard work ethic one of my greatest strengths, and it always baffles me when I meet people who go through life without a similar sense of fiery passion or drive.
Even though working hard in school has always been one of my biggest priorities, I realize school is not for everyone. The world is full of great people who are not made for academics, but if you have made it to college, you should have some sense of drive to do your best. Being fortunate enough to receive an education and to attend a great university is not something you should throw away. Even if going to school isn't your passion, don't go through the four years you have at college just sulking about how much you hate it.
College is full of opportunities, and even though it sounds cliche, it really is the time when we grow up and find ourselves. Even though most of us dread waking up for our 8 a.m.'s, or writing a debate paper, this is not an excuse to find ways to bullshit your way through. One of my biggest pet peeves is when I see people who're work ethic and drive is subpar to mine, still be able to succeed. I know plenty of people who are so used to everyone fixing their problems for them, that they have no desire to actually work hard at anything. Going through life with the mindset that you can "finesse" your way through is lazy and quite frankly, really unattractive.
As college students, we all struggle with homesickness, exhaustion, and stress. However, if you are capable of working hard, but you make up excuses for why you can't, you are throwing away the opportunities that are presented to you. School does not have to be your passion, but being in college can allow you to find what you truly love. Find your passion, and give it your all. If college really isn't for you, consider an alternative route. But if you know you are capable of working hard and being successful in school, don't fall prisoner to lazy habits and bad work ethic. Trying hard is attractive because it shows that you care about how you present yourself to others and yourself.
Make college the best four years of your life. Even if you aren't the smartest student in your class, be the most dedicated and hard-working, it'll go a long way.
