MY STORY

 "In learning how to communicate who I am and what I am capable of across multiple avenues, I learned as much about the world and the careers available to me as I did in the classroom"

Although it wasn’t easy, I learned a lot from the time I spent writing applications and fine-tuning how I could tell my story. I applied to a lot of schools as well. My dream choice was to attend the United States Air Force Academy. Still, knowing how difficult it was, I also had other applications. In all, I formally applied to FIVE colleges. I had written essays for every school, gotten them peer-reviewed, and read them myself about as many times as possible. What I was missing was the perspective of what these schools I was applying to really wanted to hear; I didn’t know right away how to get these schools to understand that I was a good fit for them. 

In April of my Senior year, I got my first wake-up call when I was not accepted into any of my top three schools of choice, including the United States Air Force Academy. Though they were all very prestigious schools, I thought I would be able to convince at least one of them. Still, there I was with a backup school before me and some lessons in my pocket that I didn’t realize I had yet. I brushed off my disappointment and moved forward with my opportunities. After some reflection, it was clear that I wanted one more shot at the Air Force Academy. I took what I learned and applied again, this time with a new perspective and the lessons I had learned the previous year. I learned how to translate time of struggle into data points of triumph; I learned to lean on the values of where I was applying to and adapt them into my own story. Not only was I a better candidate my second time around, but I was also more prepared to demonstrate that. 

Ten months after being rejected from the United States Air Force Academy, I was accepted earlier than many other applicants ever heard back. As a college student, I realized the importance of strategic communication, genuine professionalism, and effective networking. These skills have opened doors to exciting research projects and incredible job shadowing opportunities as a college student and as a future member of the workforce. In learning how to communicate who I am and what I am capable of across multiple avenues, I learned as much about the world and the careers available to me as I did in the classroom. This is the reason why Overthoughtit.com started. I have been blessed with opportunities for growth and success because I took the time to prepare myself for them, and I want all the same for you.