#if you disagree you're wrong /j /lh

[aithusarosekiller]

I'm never gonna be forgiven for this, it's gonna be screenshotted and spread around the internet by my evil friends

But I...

I miss my 2018 wolfstar phase

There

I said it

Bye bye to my reputation I guess

[wordpress-blaze-219959775]

Finding Your Academic Path: A Guide to Making the Ikigai University Choice

Choosing the right university may seem like a daunting task, but it’s an opportunity to move closer to the life you want. It’s not just about picking a prestigious name or a course with promising job prospects—it’s about finding the intersection where your talents, passions, and opportunities align.

There’s a Japanese concept called ikigai—the sweet spot where what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for come together. Your university choice is the first step toward your ikigai: the place where you can develop your skills and build a future that resonates with your passions.

The best university for you is where you achieve your highest results naturally, because your mind naturally gravitates toward that field. Analyze your grades and the subjects where you consistently excel—what topics excite you enough to explore them beyond class time? The answer to this question is your first clue to the right path.

But choosing a university isn’t just about numbers. The learning environment plays a crucial role. Some people thrive in large universities, surrounded by a dynamic atmosphere with endless networking opportunities. Others do better in smaller colleges, where classes are more personal and interactions with professors are more direct. Think about how you learn best—do you need lively discussions, or do you prefer to study in peace and quiet?

Geographic location also matters. Would you rather be in a bustling city with access to events, internships, and professional connections, or in a quieter campus setting where you can focus deeply on your studies? Some flourish in fast-paced environments, while others need a more serene space to concentrate. The setting you choose will be the soil where you plant your roots for the next few years.

The concept of wabi-sabi teaches us to find beauty in imperfection. The same applies to choosing a university—there is no perfect decision, only the one that best aligns with who you are right now. Look beyond academics: your extracurricular activities, hobbies, and the things that excite you in your free time are valuable clues about which path might feel most natural to you.

Don’t underestimate the importance of seeking advice. Talk to students, professors, and professionals in the field that interests you. Their experiences can offer insights that a university website cannot. Attend open days, explore internship or study-abroad opportunities. Academia isn’t just about theory—it’s made up of people, environments, and opportunities that can shape your journey.

And then, there’s the financial aspect. A quality education doesn’t have to mean overwhelming debt. Research scholarships, financial aid, and part-time work opportunities. Just as an artisan carefully selects the materials for a masterpiece, planning your resources wisely will help you build a sustainable academic path.

Ultimately, choosing a university isn’t just about prestige or future job opportunities. It’s about finding a place where you can grow, learn, and develop your full potential. Ikigai and wabi-sabi remind us that the path won’t be perfect or linear, but every authentic choice carries value and the potential for growth.

University is only the beginning of your journey. What truly matters is how you seize the opportunities ahead to discover who you are and what impact you want to make in the world.

Source: Finding Your Academic Path: A Guide to Making the Ikigai University Choice