How are you today?

We understand that most Universities in Singapore have released matriculation results. For those satisfied with the outcome, we would like to congratulate you. For those who are currently feeling despondent and discouraged about what the future would be like, please read on.

“Big man in a suit of armor. Take that off. What are you?” –Captain America.

“Genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist.” –Iron Man.

Taken from: https://imsdb.com/scripts/Avengers,-The-(2012).html

If we looked deeper in this candid exchange between Iron Man and Captain America, we could see that the idea of self worth is intricately interwoven with what we take pride in. With Iron Man, that would be his technology and armor and for your case it is the acceptance letter that you are hoping to receive in your mailbox.

I could imagine the immense disappointment you are facing right now. I have been in a similar situation where I have aced my multiple mini interviews only to receive a rejection letter after a three month wait. For those who have applied to any faculty, I am well aware of the efforts undertaken to maintain your grade point average, to prepare for interviews, to cross your i’s and dot your t’s. To present the best version of yourself to embark on the next phase of your career, only to be greeted with disappointment.

So, who are you when this acceptance letter is taken away from you? With Iron Man, it was not the intellect, the wealth, the possessions, but the self-sacrificial attitude that he had. If you study the context of The Avengers, Iron Man showed the self-sacrificial attitude that Captain America initially accused him to be lacking of.

Amid this distress you are facing, can I draw a parallel in your current circumstance where, despite not having an acceptance letter, you choose to move forward with resilience and grit to forge a fresh path for yourself? Do not be hasty to conclude that your chapter is over. Do not let one instance of perceived failure define your future. You are at the starting point in rewriting your narrative. 
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We often forget important life survival skills when facing a crisis. We panic when a trial hits us. Go offline from social media for a while to reflect. Identify what you value, what are your skills, your strengths and see how things add together. Reach out and have a conversation with your parents, your best friend, your mentors and your coaches on what they think. If you still feel that you have a fighting chance, submit that appeal letter.

The greatest act of defiance in the face of an impossible situation is to face your challenge and move on. 

You are not alone in dealing with this. 

p.s. Reach out to us @growthbeans if this message resonates with you. 

p.p.s Growthbeans provide individuals and leaders with a safe space to connect with your inner self, strengthen soft skills and enhance well-being. Find out more on our programs at https://www.growthbeans.com/programmes.html 

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Author

Jason Hershel Wong, Guest writer for Growthbeans.