Gotta Go My Own Way
I know. It’s crazy. Choosing to uproot my whole life and relocate to the opposite side of the country wasn’t exactly part of my meticulously crafted five-year plan. But hey, I am in my early 20s with nothing really tying me down. If I want to uproot my life, now would be the time to do it. I’ll be honest. When I was in the thick of it, I kept questioning if I was meant to be here. But the more I settle into North Carolina, the more certain I feel that God called me here for a reason.
The Decision to Move
My initial connection with North Carolina traces back to my study abroad days in Singapore. I encountered two Catholic guys on exchange from the United States, both attending UNC Chapel Hill. Engaging in spirited debates about which coast was better, their undeniable love for North Carolina left me intrigued. Perhaps there was something special about this southern state. These two became lasting friends, so I could see the good that came from North Carolina.
When I declined my invitation to serve the Peace Corps, I started researching graduate schools, contemplating the next step for my career. Breaking into hospital administration is not an easy feat, and it requires a wealth of knowledge to advance in the industry. I knew that if I wanted more doors to open up for me, I would probably have to go and get an advanced degree. Much to my surprise, I found that UNC Chapel Hill was #3 for Health Policy and Management and the #1 public school for Public Health in the country. Their programs had consistently high rankings, and their alumni network was extensive (including Michael Jordan lol). After conducting several informational interviews with current students and previous alums, I just knew that this was the next adventure that was in store for me.
Remarkably, I applied to only one graduate program—UNC. It wasn’t a rash decision; rather, a deep-seated conviction that this program aligned perfectly with my career and life goals. UNC’s reputation, challenging program, affordable tuition, and strategic location near Research Triangle Park made it the logical choice. Admittedly, I grappled with self-doubt about forgoing two years of income, leaving family and friends, and, most significantly, the specter of student loans. However, with each fear, I turned to faith, seeking guidance from the Lord.
Gradually, the doubts were replaced with affirmations that UNC was the right path. My biggest fear about choosing to pursue graduate schools was student loans. But that fear quickly disappeared into thin air. I was awarded the largest scholarship in the country for my program which allowed me to go to school for free. In addition to this scholarship, I was hired as a Graduate Research Assistant which gave me out-of-state and in-state tuition remission in addition to a stipend. I did not have to take out any student loans. In fact, I was getting paid to go to school! My financial worries were no longer a concern, and I was able to afford this big move without touching any of my savings. The Lord truly answered my prayers by tenfold, blessing me with an abundance of financial support to pursue my dreams. When I doubt His goodness, He casts away my fear and reminds me of the never-ending gift of His love.
Transitioning to North Carolina
I have always been a pretty adaptable person. You can place me anywhere, and I will find a way to adjust. But that is not to say that the adjustment process was a walk in the park for me. I remember crying on and off during my first week in North Carolina because I missed home. But with time, it became a lot easier. I made friends through church. School started. Life became hectic, and before I knew it, five months of east coast living went by in a flash.
North Carolina, with its slower pace of life, has grown on me. I’ve come to appreciate this way of living — finding a sense of belonging in a state that initially felt foreign. There are a lot of things that I enjoy about this place. For starters, I really love the affordability of this state. I can actually live comfortably with the graduate assistantship stipend that I was awarded. It has been a big help and has made me feel extremely financially secure. I am also fond of Southern culture. The football games, tailgates, and lively community make me feel right at home. People have a great way of making you feel like you belong here which I think is really special. I have friends that I know I can rely on if I ever need any help. Another thing that I love about North Carolina is the diverse natural scenery. The beach and mountains are two hours away from RDU. It is always fun to do a road trip and visit the different state and national parks nearby.
Overall, I find myself enjoying this new chapter of my life despite all of its twists and turns. As Gabriella and Troy from HSM beautifully sang it, I gotta go my own way. I have learned a lot more about myself in these past few months, and I am grateful to receive an opportunity to learn and grow here. Here’s to embracing change and embarking on new adventures!
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Emily
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P.S. I recognize that it has been 3+ months since I posted anything on this blog. It is my new year’s resolution to be more consistent with this page. I promise!!
