Defying Doubt: Proving My Academic Counselor Wrong

At the start of each semester at Santa Monica College, I, like many students, had to meet with an academic counselor to plan my courses for the year and discuss my transfer plans to a four-year university. This meeting was supposed to set me on the right path, but instead, it became a pivotal moment that tested my resolve and shaped my future.

The Doubt

During one of these routine meetings, the academic counselor I was scheduled to meet looked at my grades. My GPA at the time was a 2.8—not great, I knew that, but I had hoped for some guidance and encouragement to get back on track. Instead, he bluntly told me that with a GPA like mine, I wouldn’t be able to get into UCLA. He pointed out that UCLA typically accepted students with a GPA of 3.0 and above. His words weren’t just disheartening; they felt like a door was being shut in my face at a time when I was supposed to be preparing to transfer to a university.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

Reflecting on this scripture gave me the reassurance that even if others doubted me, God had a plan for my life that no one could take away.

The Decision

I left that meeting feeling more determined than ever. His lack of encouragement only fueled my desire to prove him wrong. As William Ernest Henley once wrote, “I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.” I decided then and there that I wouldn’t let his words define my future. I knew I had to work harder, push myself, and show that I was capable of more than what my current GPA suggested.

The Journey

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill.

With that newfound determination, I applied to eight different universities. My applications went out to schools like UC Santa Barbara, UC San Diego, Cal State Dominguez Hills, Cal State LA, and of course, UCLA. I knew the odds might not be in my favor, but I refused to let that stop me. I focused on improving my grades, participating in extracurricular activities, and crafting the best applications I could.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

This scripture became a mantra for me, reminding me that with Christ’s strength, I could overcome any challenge, even the ones that seemed insurmountable.

The Triumph

Despite what that counselor had said, I was accepted into six out of the eight universities I applied to, including UCLA. Even though I didn’t get into UC Berkeley or USC, getting accepted into UCLA felt like a victory beyond measure. It was like defying the odds, proving that even with a 2.8 GPA at the time, I could achieve what others said was impossible.

When I graduated from Santa Monica College, I did so with an associate’s degree and was part of the honors program. That success carried over when I transferred to UCLA, where I continued to be part of the honors program. Graduating with honors from Santa Monica College and becoming part of the honors program at UCLA was a testament to my belief in myself and my determination to push beyond limitations. As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” I believed, and I achieved.

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31

This scripture reminded me that with faith and hope, I could rise above any challenge and achieve my dreams.

Personal Reflection

These days, even as an adult, I’ve carried that lesson with me. Whenever someone says something negative or discouraging, I don’t let it get to me. Instead, I’ve made it a habit to try anyway. I’ve learned not to let anyone dictate what I can or cannot do.

For example, when there’s a job opportunity that seems like a stretch—something where on paper I might not seem fully qualified—I still apply. Who knows? They might just see something in my experience that stands out. This mindset has opened doors I never would have walked through if I had let doubt or fear hold me back.

This approach is something I share with others too. I often tell people to give things a shot, even if they’re unsure. The worst that can happen is that you don’t get the result you hoped for, but at least you tried. What’s more important is that by putting yourself out there, you’re choosing action over uncertainty. It’s better to know the outcome, to have that experience, than to spend your life wondering “what if?”

This way of thinking has helped me move forward in life, continually pushing against the boundaries of what others think is possible. It’s not always about winning or succeeding every time—it’s about not letting fear or doubt stop you from trying. After all, every time you try, you grow, and with every experience, you’re better equipped for the next challenge.

Final Thoughts

The experience taught me that no matter what others might say, it’s up to you to shape your future. I didn’t let one person’s opinion dictate my path—I took control and made my dreams a reality. If you ever find yourself facing doubt or discouragement, you have the power to defy it and prove that you are capable of greatness.

Soul Insights

Turn Doubt into Determination:
When others doubt you, let it fuel your drive to succeed. Use their negativity as a catalyst to push harder and prove them wrong.
Believe in Your Potential:
Never let someone else’s opinion limit your belief in what you can achieve. Your worth and capability aren’t determined by a number or someone else’s judgment.
Take Control of Your Narrative:
You are the author of your own story. Don’t let anyone else write your ending—take control of your path and shape your future according to your own dreams and goals.
Perseverance is Key:
Even when the odds seem stacked against you, keep going. Consistent effort and determination can help you overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Seek Encouragement from Within:
The most powerful motivation often comes from within. Believe in yourself, and you’ll find the strength to achieve your dreams, regardless of what others say.

Soul Path Insights