Embracing it all: Your Journey is Unique

For the longest time, I struggled with self-doubt about studying microbiology. By my second year, I was convinced I had made a mistake and tried desperately to switch courses. But no matter how hard I tried, nothing worked. I felt lost, unable to see where this degree could take me, and I kept comparing myself to others. It seemed like the world was designed to favour certain fields, especially those in computing or finance. I couldn’t help but think that if only I had chosen one of those paths, the life I desired would feel more within reach. Maybe then, I could be thriving too.

I constantly questioned my choices, especially as I watched people with more "in-demand" degrees excel in their careers. But the doubt didn’t stop there. It wasn’t just about my degree; it was also about the school I attended. What if you’re not just in the "wrong" course but also outside the so-called prestigious institutions, the Ivy Leagues, or their equivalents? You might even be studying something you're genuinely passionate about, yet it feels like the world still favours those with elite-school networks or "name-brand" degrees. It is hard not to feel at a disadvantage when your institution doesn’t carry the same weight in conversations or opportunities. That lingering sense of inadequacy can make you second-guess your potential, even if you know you have so much to offer.

But what if you’ve managed to figure it all out? And you are now doing something you really enjoy, but life throws you another curveball. In my case, that was becoming a parent. I remember crying, convinced that motherhood marked the end of my career. It felt like a moment of despair, where I believed the dreams I had envisioned for myself were slipping away. But I couldn’t have been more wrong.

What I’ve come to realize is that every chapter of my story, no matter how disconnected or challenging it seemed, has been preparing me for exactly where I am today. My background in microbiology taught me discipline and problem-solving, skills that seamlessly transferred when I pivoted into public health and eventually into tech. Becoming a mom didn’t end my career; instead, it taught me resilience, intentionality, and a profound sense of purpose. These traits became the foundation of my success as I found my voice in the digital transformation space, combining my healthcare knowledge with my ability to lead innovative projects.

It’s easy to downplay your unique experiences when they don’t seem to align with the "perfect" career trajectory society paints for us. I used to do this all the time, undervaluing my story and focusing on what I thought I lacked. But what I’ve learned is that the very things I once diminished about myself are the reasons I’ve been able to stand out. Your story, with all its twists and turns, is what sets you apart. It’s what makes you uniquely qualified to approach challenges with a perspective no one else has.

Making a career pivot isn’t about erasing your past but reframing it. Every skill, every lesson, every role you’ve taken on matters. They are the building blocks that will help you stand out in new spaces. I wouldn’t be where I am today without embracing my journey fully, both the seemingly unrelated degree in microbiology and the life-changing role of motherhood. They’ve shaped me into a resilient, innovative, and purpose-driven professional who’s not afraid to step into new arenas.

If you’re considering a pivot, don’t let self-doubt hold you back. You don’t have to fit, you don’t need to tick all the boxes to succeed. Take a moment today to think about the skills your journey has uniquely equipped you with, then go out and use them. The opportunities you’re seeking aren’t reserved for someone with a perfect resume; they’re for someone who can bring a fresh perspective and a willingness to grow. Believe me when I say that your journey, no matter how unconventional it feels, is not a hindrance. It’s your superpower. Embrace it!