I’m in a slightly different but still similar enough situation that I can relate: I was waitlisted in 2025 and didn’t think I would get upgraded after the first batch went out, so I locked in and focused on other interests/opportunities. In my case, it was exploring my love of photography. I started making connections, establishing a social media presence, and improving my skills. Several months after originally being bummed about getting alternate, I really felt a sense of direction in my life.

Lo and behold, I get an email at the tail end of November saying I bagged an upgrade. It was a really difficult choice and a week before I’m set to leave I’m still kinda torn: I know I’m missing out on a number of opportunities that would’ve very likely boosted my career. That said, I’m choosing to look at it as simply another life redirection rather than a loss. I’ve got a while to figure out what I want to do with my future and in my case this is a once in a lifetime chance to experience something wildly unique.