Celebrating Failure

This summer I originally except for summer B in Gainesville. I had two classes online during summer A that I assumed would keep me busy. It did not take long to realize, however, that summer A was longer than I anticipated.  As the afternoon naps got repetitive I realized it may be time to pursue a job. While I had experience as a camp counselor my legitimate work experience was limited. This made it difficult as I pursued my last minute summer job.  I first applied to a chocolate shop right by the apartment that I live in. This seemed ideal as they hosted birthday parties for children, relevant to my limited experience. After a one day trial run they decided not to reach out to me. This rejection seemed unreasonable and harsh at first. However, this opened the door for a new opportunity which turned out to be a huge success. I ran into a man wearing a “Geoscape Solar” t-shirt and began talking to him about solar energy and my interest in sustainability. He was very impressed by my curiosity and passion and decided to bring me on as an intern.  Had I not been turned down from the chocolate shop this opportunity would have never presented itself.  While failure can be tough to grasp at first we must always recognize that we are opening new pathways and opportunities. Through this class I have realized that even the most uncomfortable rejections can be modified and reevaluated.