Taylor Tobin (The Beacon)
By Taylor Tobin
Staff Commentary
Last semester, between learning derivatives and preparing for a presentation on Judaism, I carved an ear out of a piece of soap. This was not simply out of spontaneity, but because I was enrolled in Sculpture I. I signed up for the class because I'm someone who needs an artistic break in my workload. This semester, I decided to take a piano class to fill that break. I'm planning to continue this pattern throughout my time at UP.
A lot of students seem worried that they will someday be stuck in a job they don't genuinely enjoy. Some are getting a specific degree in hopes for a high paying job, knowing it may not fulfill their creative ambitions. If you're stuck with a dilemma like this, don't spend so much time worrying about it. Instead, spend time pursuing something you enjoy on the side.
If you're getting a degree in political science in preparation for law school but are pushing other passions to the side, remember that you probably don't want to look back and think, "Why didn't I try that?" or "I wish I would've pursued that."
Maybe I'm just extremely impressionable, but if you tell me I'm good at painting, I'll hit the easel for the next week. I often explore new creative outlets and encourage others to. Missing out on an enjoyable aspect of life just because you're not gutsy enough or don't make time to try it would suck. If you're lacking fulfillment in your work and you're unsure of what hobby you would enjoy, leave your comfort zone (or the comfort of your bed and Netflix.) Try something you've always wanted to do.
If you are already doing something you love, good for you! But for those who have trouble acting on inspiration, remember that you may not discover what you really enjoy doing on the first try. You always have the option to pick up a new hobby in addition to or as a replacement for another one.
If there is something you want to do, don't push it off until tomorrow. After college you might not have the level of excitement you have for it now. And don't do it just to achieve recognition from others. Do it because it makes you happy and is meaningful to you.
Taylor Tobin is a freshman business administration major. She can be reached at tobint16@up.edu.
