Message from the Director—May 2024
Decisions, Decisions, Decisions…
From: Dr. Miguel Baique, Director of the David T. Kearns Center for Leadership and Diversity in Arts, Sciences & Engineering
Dear Kearns Center Community,
As we find ourselves at the crossroads of life, facing the thrilling yet challenging task of making decisions about our futures, I want to extend a warm message of encouragement and guidance.
Making any decision can pose challenges, but when it carries significant weight for your future, the stakes can feel even higher. When faced with tough decisions, I often grapple with the fear of choosing incorrectly - the overwhelming task of weighing the implications of each option - and the actual and assumed pressures exerted by family, peers, and colleagues. Additionally, at times, I tend to err on the side of caution, hesitant to take risks that could potentially backfire. Reflecting on a pivotal decision in my life, I recall the daunting prospect of leaving my hometown of NYC to pursue higher education in Upstate, NY. The thought of being far away from my family, departing from familiar surroundings, and grappling with the financial burden of college tuition loomed large in my mind. However, amidst these concerns, I also envisioned the opportunities that awaited me in a new community, the diverse perspectives I would encounter at a fantastic liberal arts college, and the realization that embracing risk was essential for achieving my aspirations. Though my journey was far from flawless, the combination of triumphs and setbacks proved invaluable. It provided a platform for self-discovery, offering the space to make mistakes, learn from them, and grow. Moreover, it laid the groundwork for my professional trajectory, guiding me to where I stand today. Looking back, I am profoundly grateful for taking a leap of faith in myself and embracing uncertainty.
Whether you're a pre-college student exploring your educational options in the midst of systematic financial aid changes, an undergraduate student charting your path towards the workforce and/or graduate education upon graduation, a graduate student navigating the complexities of your chosen field and deciding on your next venture, or a member of our wider community contemplating career shifts and/or personal endeavors, it is normal and acceptable to be nervous in making life-changing decisions. However, while it may seem daunting at times, making decisions that impact your future can be an incredibly exciting opportunity for growth and self-discovery. As you navigate making decisions, especially those who are graduating this year, I urge you to trust in yourself and your abilities. You have already demonstrated resilience and determination by reaching this point in your journey, and those same qualities will serve you well as you navigate the choices ahead. Remember that you are capable of achieving great things, and that no matter which path you ultimately choose, your potential for success remains boundless.
However, while in the midst of the decision-making process, it's important to acknowledge that not every decision will lead to the desired outcome. Take the time to reflect on your values, passions, and goals, and let them guide you towards decisions that align with your truest self and what you envision for your future. Life is unpredictable, and setbacks and challenges are an inevitable part of the journey. In those moments, I encourage you to be kind to yourself and remember that failure is not a reflection of your worth or potential. Seek out mentors, advisors, and trusted confidants who can offer support and perspective along the way. Know that staff at the Kearns Center are here and ready to have these conversations with you. While it’s up to you to make the final decision, we will be here to provide input around your decision-making process and ultimately support you in whichever decision you decide to take.
Approach this decision-making process with courage, curiosity, and an open mind. Embrace the uncertainty of the future as an opportunity for adventure and exploration, and trust that no matter which path you choose, you have the resilience and resourcefulness to thrive. As I tell students often, the road to success is rarely ever linear. On behalf of everyone here at the Kearns Center, we are here to support you and are cheering you on as you embrace the road ahead.
Wishing you all the best,
Dr. Miguel Baique
Read previous messages from the director: