Slow Success, Fast Success
Back in 2018, I led one of the largest student-run tech conferences in Canada. Through this experience, I met the most ambitious students at Waterloo, connected with founders across the city, and, because of the role’s visibility, became well-known on campus.
Through this conference, I met Baris who offered me an internship in the bar area on a whim. I became the first person in my class to land a coveted “Cali” internship. Through that job, I met students from MIT, UC Berkeley, and Stanford. I connected with CEOs of the hottest startups and even met multiple billionaires.
During this year, I experienced fast success and my ego skyrocketed. I knew it would hold me back, and it did. I thought I was better than everyone, so I didn’t connect with my classmates. I didn’t ask for help. It was isolating, and I struggled after that.
When it comes to my creative journey, I started writing five years ago. Unlike my early career, I never had a single breakthrough moment. None of my pieces have gone viral. But over time, the success has been building. The frustration, rejection, and failure have shaped my character and humbled me. I’ve learned not to cling to outcomes but to enjoy the process—that’s why I’ve stayed in the game so long.
Now, as writing and my creative projects are a main focus. External success is just a matter of time, but I already feel like I’ve won. I’m at peace. I’m not attached to anything. I’m just trying to be my best self and have fun.