“Choices are the hinges of destiny.” -Pythagoras
 
Today is the beginning of Week 5 of my last Winter Quarter at UCLA and marks the halfway point of my senior year. I took the time to reflect upon the above quote and how it relates to my college experience.
 
Our choices not only shape who we are today, but also dictate who we will become. Where we will be, with whom, and when, are all components of our destiny that we can control today.
 
Below is a list of five decisions I made in college that I believe have shaped my destiny:
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1. I built a strong relationship with a professor.
 
In my freshman year, I took Education 92F taught by Professor Bruce Barbee and on the last day of class, I felt that I still had more to learn from him. I sought him out in the hopes that he could help me build my college career at UCLA. Today, he is invaluable to me as a mentor and I still see him about twice a week. He has helped shape and strengthen my character and has opened many doors of opportunity for me. Professors are an accessible source of experience and intelligence and working closely with one has greatly enhanced my college experience.
 
2. I joined a faith group.
 
After freshman orientation, I made a quick mental list of things that I needed to find at UCLA and at the top of that list was a church. My faith has always been one of my core values growing up and I knew that I had to maintain it in a new environment to have a successful college career. I found a faith group in Amaranthine early in my first year and as a member, I was able to not only maintain but also grow my faith through meeting others who had similar values to me. The friendships I have made through Amaranthine are special to me and friendships that I believe will last after I graduate.
 
3. I found a valuable internship.
 
Getting accepted to the Peer Advisor Internship Program at the Career Center was a defining moment in my college career because it was the first competitive position that I had ever earned. The application process and eventual acceptance built my confidence and helped me realize the value that I can provide to future employers. I will never forget that value when applying to future organizations for a job position. I’ll be sure to also find a job that I enjoy-my coworkers are great and I take a lot of pride in my daily work at the Career Center.
 
4. I attended the gym regularly.
 
Attending the gym taught me the importance of persistence, discipline, and resolve in all that I do. I also learned to take care of my body at the gym and became stronger physically and mentally. Regularly going to the gym is one of my best habits and I’m glad that I continue to reap the benefits of doing so.
 
5. I pursued a long term relationship.
 
My decision to pursue a relationship with my girlfriend Neesha 3 years ago is the most influential decision I have made in college. I promised myself that I would give my best each day in my first relationship and never look back. Doing so has helped me build a relationship today in which I am constantly learning and growing. Finally, being in a relationship has truly made me happy-I’m so glad to be able to share much of what I’ve experienced with someone I love.
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I hope you enjoyed reading through this list. For those of you who are graduating soon or have already graduated, try listing out 5 decisions that defined your college career and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how much you have accomplished.
 
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