Written by: Gabriela Perez Jordan, Cisneros Class of 2023
As a college student, the spring season always entails applying for summer internships. Every student is trying to find that one perfect internship that meets their needs and advances their career.
Around the end of February, as I began to research possible internships for myself, I came across an internship I really liked. It was a paid internship for a prestigious publishing press, which I had always dreamed of working for. This internship opportunity would not only advance my career but also open the doors to new opportunities in the future. Throughout the month of February, I went back and forth debating whether or not I should apply. I tirelessly reviewed their website and thought about my past experiences and the chances I stood of actually getting a spot. Two days before the deadline, I convinced myself I did not meet the requirements, nor had the previous experiences needed to land such an internship. I told myself I did not measure up to the other candidates, that I did not have enough time to actually write something good, and that because I stood no chance of actually getting it, I should not apply at all.
Fast forward a couple of weeks later, I was talking to the first-year student I mentor, and she said she had gotten an interview at one of the places she applied for a summer internship. As I congratulated and celebrated her for her accomplishments, I asked where she had applied. To my surprise, she had gotten an interview at that same publishing firm I had stopped myself from applying back in February. While I was incredibly proud of her success, I was disappointed in myself. Having a mentee who looked up to me for advice and guidance made me realize that I actually did have what it took to get an internship like that, but the only person in my way was myself. I had said no to myself, before anyone else could and had become my own barrier.
As a Latina and student of color, there are already so many barriers we have to go through to get opportunities like these and I had wasted a great opportunity for growth due to a lack of self-confidence. I have vowed to never inhibit myself from my true potential. I have taken the experience as a huge lesson learned and have determined I will never doubt my skills and abilities as a student or professional and will apply to things without the fear of getting rejected. I will shoot my shot even if the net seems too far to reach!
Today, I encourage you to reflect on your previous experiences, as well. Have you also been your own barrier before? As students and professionals, we face too many challenges already, we do not need to add ourselves to that list. If you identify with this experience, but are not sure how to get started on your journey to self-confidence and self-advocacy, check out some of the tips I have found the most effective.
1. Read inspiring stories
Oftentimes, we forget the impact stories can have on us. Next time you are feeling defeated or find yourself doubting your true potential, I encourage you to read a couple of inspirational short stories. Here is a website I have found with cool short-stories!
2. Change your perspective
I am a big believer that when you can’t change your situation, you need to change your attitude. While it may not seem like it, this also applies to self-confidence. Whenever you catch yourself tearing yourself down, purposefully change your mindset by listing things about yourself that are positive and encouraging.
3. Look for people who build you up
It is really important to surround yourself with people who seek to uplift you, rather than tear you down. These are the people you can rely on when you are feeling down and will motivate you when you do not feel like your best self. This article has great tips on how to surround yourself with friends who lift you up.
4. Get out of your comfort zone
We frequently find ourselves limiting our potential due to our inner fears. It is necessary to recognize these fears and face them by challenging ourselves to get out of our comfort zone. A great way to do this is by trying new things and applying to internships or jobs you never would have in the past. You will gain confidence by giving yourself a chance and by witnessing how much you can grow when you leave your comfort zone. Like my mentor, Ilda, always says, “If you’re comfortable, you’re not growing.”
5. Embrace a growth mindset
Sometimes all it takes for us to gain in self-confidence and self-advocacy is to embrace a growth mindset. It is important to draw from our inner strength and take the events that come our way as opportunities to grow and learn from regardless of the outcome.
As a student who makes mistakes and learns from them, I encourage you to practice some self-confidence today. Nobody knows you better than you know yourself, so give yourself a shot and advocate for your success!
Gabriela Perez Jordan is a second-year Cisneros Scholar in the GW Columbian College of Arts & Sciences. She is pursuing a Bachelor’s in Communication Studies with a double minor in Marketing and Journalism. She is originally from Dorado, Puerto Rico but now calls New Orleans home. Gabriela’s views are her own and not necessarily reflective of the Cisneros Institute.
Photo Credit: Ana Solano