This article is part of our Legends Interview Program. An Alumni Association initiative to record the experiences of alumni and share with our community. This interview took place on June 1st, 2022. Schedule an interview or submit your own story to us by emailing us at info@foreveraneasttechtitan.com.
In the pursuit of a fulfilling and purpose-driven life, one of the greatest challenges we face is finding our true passion. Often, we find ourselves questioning what we truly enjoy and what aligns with our long-term goals. While the path to finding your passion may not always be straightforward, there are effective strategies that can guide you along the way. Today, I found my passion in the motorsports industry and I am currently pursuing a career in that industry. I want to share a couple of lessons I’ve gained from the things I’ve done to offer guidance on your journey of finding your passion.
Embrace the Power of Internships
Internships serve as invaluable opportunities for self-discovery and exploration. Engaging in a variety of internships exposes you to different industries, job functions, and work environments. Each experience brings unique insights and allows you to gauge your interests and preferences.
By doing a ton of internships, you gain practical experience and develop a deeper understanding of various fields. Moreover, internships enable you to build a professional network, establish connections with mentors, and learn from seasoned experts. This exposure helps you expand your horizons and opens doors to possibilities you may have never considered before.
While interning, approach each role with an open mind and a curious spirit. Take the initiative to explore different projects and tasks within the organization. Pay attention to the aspects that resonate with you the most and note the ones that leave you feeling uninspired. By actively participating and reflecting on your experiences, you can start to identify patterns and preferences that will guide you towards your true passion.
After I graduated from East Tech and pursued a career in automotive marketing, every internship I’ve gone through helped me gain experience and knowledge as a marketer. After every internship, I gained a ton of experience that helped me become a better marketer.
Think Ahead: Long-Term Enjoyment Matters
As you engage in internships and gain valuable experience, it’s crucial to think ahead and consider if the job you’re doing aligns with your long-term aspirations. While some roles may provide short-term gratification, it is essential to assess whether they can sustain your interest and enthusiasm in the long run.
Reflect on the tasks and responsibilities that truly excite you and give you a sense of fulfillment. Consider the skills you enjoy utilizing and the impact you aspire to make. Evaluate how these factors align with your personal values and goals. Additionally, think about the work environment and company culture that will foster your growth and satisfaction.
It’s important to note that passion is not always found in a single job or career path. Sometimes, it emerges from a combination of different interests or even evolves over time. Therefore, remain open to the possibility of a nonlinear path and be willing to explore different avenues to find your true calling.
Along the journey of self-discovery, embrace self-reflection. Engage in activities such as journaling, meditation, or conversations with mentors and trusted individuals. These practices can help you gain clarity, understand your strengths and weaknesses, and uncover the underlying motivations that drive your passion.
Remember, finding your passion is a process that takes time and patience. Be willing to take risks, embrace new opportunities, and learn from both successes and failures. Trust yourself and have faith that your efforts will lead you closer to discovering the work that brings you joy and fulfillment.
Good luck Titans!
