I used to believe I was inherently bad at math. I failed it twice, and it felt like proof that I wasn’t cut out for college. But something shifted the third time. I approached it differently, and I passed—with an A. That moment didn’t just rewrite how I saw myself as a student; it taught me that what seems impossible is usually just unfamiliar. Now I apply that lesson everywhere, especially in the areas that scare me the most.
One of the biggest things I’ve learned about myself is that I’m not afraid to ask questions, especially when it comes to enrolling in classes or navigating things I used to find intimidating. Instead of getting stuck in self-doubt, I’ve learned to break things down into manageable steps, and I keep moving forward even if I make mistakes.
Without Pathways, that growth wouldn’t have happened. The program gave me structure and encouragement when I needed it most. It created space for me to take those steps—imperfectly, but fearlessly. I don’t always know what comes next, but I’ve learned that I’m capable of figuring it out. One step at a time.
~TK
