I’m turning 28 in a few days, and here I am, still in the same boat as before. I wonder where this pressure and fear come from, but I do feel that turning 28 in this state is not something that I wish about.
I always overthink and ask myself these questions “What happened?”, “Is this the end?”, “Will I still be able to achieve my dreams?” and “Until when will I stay this way?”
Turning 28 with no job, savings, or career is something that all people are scared about. I can’t blame anyone, though I know I am the only one responsible for my life. I am still lucky to live in a house with food to eat and water to drink.
I’m a failure but a learner
I failed in different scenarios in my life. I don’t know where it all starts, but from the very first, I don’t know what I want.
- What college degree?
When I entered college, I was undecided. I wanted a computer-related course, but then I took Biology because my parents suggested I could become a doctor. However, I learned that we should follow what our hearts want – our passion and the talent that God gave us. We must find and believe that we can succeed by doing what we are happy for.
- How was it?
For those years, I had a hard time, but I just wanted to enjoy myself and get things done. I enjoyed research more than my other subjects. I enjoyed working alone and finishing things up. Maybe this is also part of my introverted character, and then I learned to put down my walls and let other people know me better.
- I graduated but a year late!
Do we have the same environment that entering a prestigious school, getting a significant degree, and graduating on time will make you successful? Oh well, those were beliefs by the odds. During and after graduation, I was so shy and doubtful, well I lived in an environment of “she graduated late?”, “maybe she is not that intelligent,” “Ohh poor, why she didn’t make it on time?” and a lot more. I was affected by that criticism, but then I knew there were all “just” opinions. Late or on time, if you graduate, you graduate. That’s it. I learned that having different timelines will only cause you depression if you keep on comparing with others.
- A thesis presented in THAILAND!
Did I tell you that I love research? Well, this is one of my most significant milestones. Do you know why I graduated late? Because I have to finish my experiment for my thesis and I have no control over how my microorganisms will work for me, I need a lot longer time for them to grow for the fermentation. By the way, my thesis is about “ethanol-producing yeast from naturally fermenting fruits.” I graduated late, but I was able to present my undergraduate thesis in Thailand! I’m so happy, but you know what even made me happy? Seeing my parents so proud of me. (cries 😂)
- Make your parents proud by pursuing a Master’s degree at a top-notch university gone wrong!
I always wanted to make my parents proud of me. They are parents who, if their children are high achievers academically, will boast you all to their friends and colleagues. Hey, I want that! So I entered a top-notch university in my country. I submitted all requirements and even applied for a scholarship. You know what? I made it! I was accepted, but the scholarship was still on hold since I’m on probationary status. Am I happy? Yes, I am so glad because I entered a top-notch university. My parents are so proud of me, especially for the major I get, which is Master of Science in Microbiology. But wait, as much as I want to make them proud, and I am having second thoughts about making myself proud this time. So I questioned myself for years while pursuing the degree. Sadly, I failed. I cried and thought that everything would be okay and would fall into the right places.
- Work, earn, and treat your family!
Since I failed my master’s degree, I found a job and worked as a microbiologist at a healthcare company. It pays well, and I can earn just the right to treat my family and help my parents to pay bills. I enjoyed everything about the job, but there’s a thing in me that is this really what you wanted. From college to master’s to work. Am I really for this? When will I do the things that I want? When will I find the happy me? Covid came and got infected by it. During those times pandemic, I found what I wanted to pursue. I found, UX!
- Rejections there and everywhere
I finished Google UX Design Specialization and produced three projects. I am so proud of myself this time, my parents might not be, but I am pleased. It’s like I am starting from scratch because I am learning a different kind of field. I used the Coursera platform for my career transition process, and I learned a lot. However, competition in this field is so high. I applied to multiple companies, and I didn’t make it. There are so many applicants who for sure have the qualities and experience they are looking for. Nevertheless, I will make this experience an inspiration to do more and practice more to enhance my skills and improve my work.
And now you know me so well, are you ready to read more of my stories? Stay tuned for the next chapters. By the way, I’m Kimberly, but you can call me Kima, and this is my story. 🫶🏻