#2: Everything Happens For A Reason
From navigating a quarter-life crisis to discovering new paths in Boston, each experience has shaped me into the person I am today.
Everything happens for a reason. Yes, it’s a very cliché quote, but it’s something I tell myself almost daily. In my last blog post, I shared my journey of becoming a Graphic Designer. This time, I want to talk about where I am today and how I got here. It is a story full of twists and turns that prove everything happens for a reason.
Last summer, 2023, I experienced what I can only describe as a quarter-life crisis. Yes, those do happen, and it happened to me. As a freelancer, I found myself deeply concerned about the future of my career as AI technology became more advanced. The rise of AI tools and software meant that design tasks were increasingly accessible to non-professionals, challenging the traditional role of graphic designers. This realization pushed me to think about expanding my skill set. However, I didn’t want to leave my passion for creativity behind.
Determined to find a way to combine my love for creativity with new opportunities, I started researching the “best universities in Boston to do a Master’s Degree in Digital Marketing.” After thorough research and several program consultations, I chose Suffolk University. The decision came quickly—I was accepted within three weeks. With acceptance came a whirlwind of changes: I found a roommate, packed up my life, and prepared to leave the only home I’d known for 25 years, all within two weeks. Crazy, I know, but again, things happen for a reason.
My journey to Boston began with a job as a preschool teacher. While it wasn’t my passion, it taught me valuable personal skills and helped me adjust to my new city. Six months later, I started my Master’s Degree. Around the same time, I landed a job as a Graphic Designer Associate at Thoughtlight. This opportunity came through a friend I hadn’t seen in five years and had lost contact with until I moved to Boston. It’s yet another example of how everything happens for a reason.
Looking back, I see how each step, each decision, and each unexpected turn has brought me to where I am today. My quarter-life crisis pushed me to expand my horizons and led me to an exciting new chapter in Boston. The initial struggle of adjusting to a new city and a new job turned into a period of personal growth and professional advancement. Reconnecting with an old friend led to a fantastic job opportunity that aligns perfectly with my passion for creativity.
I continue this journey, I remain open to the unexpected and trust that each moment is part of a larger plan. I invite you to share your own stories and reflections in the comments. Let’s continue to make this blog a space of collaboration and inspiration.
© Valeria Wallentin, 2024
6 Responses
Sometimes, all you can really say is: “It’s crazy how that happened”. In my experience, these moments where life happens to take you on new adventures are the most rewarding. Although change can be difficult and scary, looking back and knowing you stuck through it makes for some valuable memories.
Continue to strive for new adventures!
I love this topic; I think as young professionals and graduate students, many of us can relate to how we will fare in the future especially with how crazy the world seems to be these days. I think inevitably we all compare ourselves to our peers without truly knowing the struggles or sacrifices someone takes to get into their current positions. I also loved how you started here as a preschool teacher and changed careers into something completely different. Kind of cements that nothing has to be permanent if we choose to change the course. Great post, Valeria!
wow valeria!!! so impressive!! i am a firmer believer that everything does happen for a reason and I loved reading your posts and excited to see where you are yet to head to!
wow valeria!!! so impressive!! i am a firmer believer that everything does happen for a reason and I loved reading your posts and excited to see where you are yet to head to!
Thank you for sharing your inspiring journey! I can completely relate to the idea that everything happens for a reason. In my personal life, this mindset has helped me navigate many challenges and opportunities. When I face setbacks or unexpected changes, I remind myself that these experiences are shaping me for something greater. Like you, I have found new paths and connections that I wouldn’t have discovered otherwise. It’s amazing how life’s twists and turns can lead us to where we’re meant to be. Here’s to embracing the unexpected and trusting the journey 🙂
Thank you for sharing your inspiring journey! I can completely relate to the idea that everything happens for a reason. In my personal life, this mindset has helped me navigate many challenges and opportunities. When I face setbacks or unexpected changes, I remind myself that these experiences are shaping me for something greater. Like you, I have found new paths and connections that I wouldn’t have discovered otherwise. It’s amazing how life’s twists and turns can lead us to where we’re meant to be. Here’s to embracing the unexpected and trusting the journey 🙂