Feeling boxed in by the school’s reputation.
FEELING BOXED IN BY THE SCHOOL’S REPUTATION.
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To my fellow students and alumni of these storied institutions, let’s talk openly. Remember the pride, the sheer relief, the immense joy when that acceptance letter arrived? It was a validation, a promise of intellectual rigor and unparalleled opportunity. Yet, for many of us, that powerful identity can also feel like a weight, a heavy brand that precedes us everywhere we go.
The moment you mention where you studied, people often make immediate assumptions. They project a certain kind of future onto you, expect a specific career trajectory, or assume a level of privilege that might not reflect your reality. This isn't just about external perceptions; sometimes we internalize it too, feeling pressured to always excel, to perfectly embody the "ideal" graduate, or to follow a path that aligns with the institution's historical prestige rather than our own evolving passions.
This "Ivy identity" undeniably shapes us. It refines our critical thinking, broadens our horizons, and connects us to an incredible network. It opens doors. But it doesn't define us. Your worth is not solely derived from that prestigious nameplate. Your identity is a complex tapestry woven from your personal experiences, your struggles, your unique talents, and the courage to forge your own way.
Let's shed the expectation that we must fit neatly into a pre-defined mold. Let's celebrate the courage to deviate, to explore, and to create futures that truly resonate with who we are, not just where we went. The brand is a part of our story, a powerful chapter, but never the entire book.
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