Benefits of Undergoing Challenging Times

We all have encountered struggles in life. Whether that be academic, physical, and/or mental challenges, we all have experienced them and at one point or another and we all overcome them.

During the time when we are faced with a challenge, you may not look at it as an opportunity, but truly it is. An opportunity to demonstrate strength and determination to overcome. An opportunity to show you are capable, and an opportunity to prove to yourself that you are incredible. 

These challenges you face don't define you but are defined by how you handle them and use them to better yourself. Whether that challenge be big or small, using them in a way to grow and mold yourself into a better version is what's most important. Below are some ways to reflect on your life and present yourself in a positive way when applying to professional schools. 

Here are some ways you can make light of difficult life experiences: 

1. Talk about it in your personal statement:

Some students choose to write about a pivotal moment or event that has changed who they are. These events tie into their desire to go to professional school and so in a personal statement one can write about their challenges in a way to show how it led them to choosing a specific career path. This may be something that makes you stand out and demonstrates key qualities professional schools are looking for.  

1. Talk about it in your interview: 

Use your challenges in a way to make your interview more personal and unique to you. If you are comfortable sharing with your interviewer obstacles you have faced, it will all the interview connect with you on a deeper level and gain a better understanding of your story. If you share this, make sure to emphasize how you have bettered yourself after going through this experience. Professional schools like to see students be able to reflect, adapt, and grow, so using personal experiences can demonstrate your ability to do these things. 

1. Use it as fuel:

It is likely we will face more challenges along the way that too will help mold us. It is important to reflect on past experiences to ensure future ones can be conquered as well. Use past experiences and lessons learned to grow closer to yourself and to prove to yourself what you can do. 

1. Give yourself credit:

We often forget about giving ourselves credit after going through a difficult time, but we shouldn't. No matter the size of the obstacle you overcame, be proud of yourself.

Final Thoughts 

We never know or understand what others may be experiencing, so it is important to remember to always be kind. When you are struggling, know others are there for you and in return you should be there for others. At the end of the day, you can use obstacles you have overcome to shed light on the amazing person you have now become. 

Additional Resources:

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS)

• Services through CAPS are available to provide support for personal concerns such as stress, depression or relationship issues.

CAPS Connect

• CAPS Connect is a brief consultation program that is confidential, completely free, and available to all enrolled MSU students. Just drop-in during the scheduled times - no appointment is necessary!

Community Mental Health

• (800) 372-8460
• (517) 346-8460

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

• 24 Hour Emergency Services
• Collect Calls Accepted 24 Hours
• Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• Or, text "START" to 741-741

By, 

Darby