Embracing the Other Option
“Can I choose ‘Other’?”
Dear Class of 2025,
As you step into the next chapter of your life, remember this: Choosing “Other” is always an option.
When life presents you with seemingly limited choices, there’s often an invisible third path waiting to be discovered. Yes, selecting “other” means you’ll need to define what that looks like. That’s where the challenge lies. But you don’t have to do it alone, I promise.
Early in my career (yes, my past students might have heard this one before), I faced an ethical dilemma: create fake data to win a client or risk losing my job. With limited experience and a young family depending on me, neither quitting nor getting fired seemed viable.
My colleague, who had more confidence and fewer responsibilities, decided to quit and suggested something completely off my radar—graduate school. This “other” option wasn’t on my list until he mentioned it, but it changed the trajectory. Of my career. And my life.
Sometimes it takes a mentor or a friend to illuminate possibilities we can’t see ourselves.
So when facing difficult decisions:
- Be curious about unexplored alternatives
- Summon your courage to look beyond obvious choices
- Don’t be afraid to redefine your options
- And don’t hesitate to seek others’ ideas
Remember, the most transformative opportunities often emerge when you refuse to accept false dichotomies and instead ask, “What else might be possible?”
Graduates, the world needs your fresh perspective and willingness to chart new paths. When you feel cornered by limited options, that’s precisely when you should look for… and boldly choose… “other.”
Your future is waiting! I’m so happy to share it with you.
#GradAdvice #ChoosingOther #CareerPath #NewBeginnings #ClassOf2025 #BeyondTheObvious #FindYourPath