It’s funny how caffeine can change your life. Just a year ago, I never saw myself here, walking down Thayer Street with a fancy cold brew in hand, about to attend a consulting club meet-and-greet. Now, I’m navigating a new world filled with ambitions and fears of not fitting in—a real whirlwind.
So, how did I get here? It wasn’t just luck. There were countless hours of applications, essays, and transcript requests. I kept imagining myself at Brown, notebook in hand, ready to take on the world. I wanted to feel like a main character in my own story, with clear goals and a sense of purpose.
At my previous school, I felt like a wandering artist. I didn’t have a clear direction, and when people asked about my future, I fumbled through vague answers. But coming to Brown, I decided to craft a solid plan for my next ten years. I wanted to choose a path that felt right for me.
Surprisingly, I had never even tried coffee until my first day at Brown. I thought I didn’t need it. But during orientation, I learned about “coffee chats” and realized coffee isn’t just a drink; it’s part of the social fabric here. It was all about making connections—something I had to embrace.
I went all in, picking a large black cold brew for my first order. I wanted to show that I was tough and ready for this new chapter. But I quickly learned that the bitter flavor of black coffee wasn’t for me. I forced myself to adjust, thinking serious ambitions came with a heavy dose of caffeine. I filled my calendar with extracurricular activities, hoping to fit the “Ivy League” mold.
However, I hit a wall one night after a caffeine overload. Staring at my ceiling, I finally took a moment to reflect. I didn’t come to Brown to follow a strict career path or abandon my love for writing and art. I realized I needed to focus on what truly resonated with me instead of just what was expected.
After a week of intense changes, I cleared out my calendar, deleting clubs that didn’t excite me. I chose to align myself with activities that felt more true to me, like post magazine and a capella. With that, I found some breathing space in my schedule—for friendships, relaxation, and just being myself.
Though my journey might sound dramatic, it was incredibly valuable. After three weeks at Brown, I’ve never felt more at home. I’m now sipping on my matcha latte while writing—something I truly enjoy. I’m exploring new flavors and feeling more connected to my authentic self. I don’t have to conform to the image of a serious student to find my place here.
Of course, I respect those who thrive in the traditional paths—there’s nothing wrong with that. But I’m realizing it’s okay to be a little lost or to choose a different route. It’s perfectly fine not to have all the answers, even at an Ivy League school.
