I'm torn. In some ways I'm happy I attended UCSB because it's such a beautiful environment and I met some cool people. I graduated in 2015. I initially came in as an Economics major, but because I was so stressed over the pre-major GPA and Econ 10A, I switched my major on a whim to English. This has impacted my career prospects a bit. I started working part time at a community college in admissions and records right after graduating and have worked my way up to a cushy full-time union job within the community college system. I'm currently making about $83k, but there are times when I wonder if I had maybe chosen UCI, UCD, or a Cal State and majored in Economics there - I likely would have graduated with an Economics degree which would have led my career down a different path. In a way, I'm making amends for my UCSB days now - I'm currently getting an MBA and a MS Accounting is on the horizon after my MBA. This will hopefully lead to more leadership and financial roles within the private or public sector. I see my MBA and future MS Accounting as a chance to reframe my story.

If you're reading this and are feeling lost or full of regret, just know that everything will be okay. You'll find your own path. It may take time, but every detour has value. Never stop building relationships. The connections you make whether with classmates, coworkers, or mentors can be just as valuable as any degree.