Dear Aggie Figuring Out What’s Next,
If you're reading this, chances are you might be standing at one of those crossroads that nobody warned you about when you committed to Texas A&M.
Maybe you didn't get into that organization you had your heart set on. Maybe you're a freshman watching everyone else seem to have it figured out while you're still trying to find your people. Or maybe you know there's more that you want to do, more you want to be, but you're not quite sure where to start and it feels like time is running out.
First, take a breath. Then ask yourself this question: What if right here is exactly where you're supposed to be?
I want to remind you that sometimes, the unexpected crossroads you’re in can push you into the very thing that you want the most.
Remember why you chose to be an Aggie? It wasn't just about the rankings or the traditions — or even the football (although those are pretty incredible things). You chose Texas A&M because something about this place spoke to you. The spirit, the opportunities, the feeling that you could become someone here. That wasn't a mistake. That feeling was real, and it's still here.
Here's what nobody tells you about college: the best parts don’t always come from “Plan A.”
That organization you didn't get into? It might have kept you from discovering the one where you'll meet your future best friend, business partner or the group that actually aligns with who you're becoming and not just who you thought you'd be.
That semester when you feel a little lost? It's often the one where you're most open to the unexpected opportunities that end up defining your Aggie experience.
I’m not going to lie and say it’s not hard when things don’t work out how you imagined they would. But it’s not really about what knocked you down, is it? I think it’s more about how you get back up. And with that said, I’m going to tell you something that maybe others won’t.
Your Aggie experience is as big as you're willing to make it.
Yep. I said it. You didn't come to Texas A&M to play it safe.
You came here to become someone. To do something. To be part of something bigger than yourself. The reality is that these things don’t usually happen in your comfort zone. They happen in those moments when you push past the uncertainty and show up for yourself and those around you.
Join that club that sounds interesting even if none of your friends are going. Show up to that event even if you're going alone. Apply for that leadership position even if you're not sure you're "qualified enough."
Say yes when someone invites you to try something new. Raise your hand in that meeting. Strike up a conversation with the person sitting next to you in class. Volunteer your time.
Some of the most legendary Aggies started exactly where you are right now. Uncertain. Wondering if they belonged. Trying to figure out their place. When you peek behind the curtain of every person who you think has it all together, there was likely a pivotal moment in their lives when they faced tough circumstances but decided to show up anyway.
They walked into that first meeting even though they didn't know anyone. They applied for that position even after a rejection. They kept trying new things until something clicked. And then, when it did click, they discovered that all those moments of uncertainty were actually building something.
College isn't about having it all figured out. It's about putting yourself out there when you don't.
Because the beauty of this place, the real magic of being an Aggie, is that you don't have to have it all figured out before you start.
You just have to start.
The path often reveals itself when you take the first step. So here's your challenge: this week, do one thing that scares you a little. Join something new. Reach out to someone. Try something you've been curious about. Follow that interest that's been in the back of your mind. Submit an application for something.
If that seems too big right now, that’s okay. Start smaller. Reflect on one thing, small or large that you accomplished this past week. Whether it was finishing an assignment you’ve been dreading or getting to the gym, start building momentum in these things first. Keep taking one step after another, and soon enough, you’ll be walking towards something bigger.
You don’t have to be involved in a million things either. Pick something that matters most to you, and pursue it.
The support is here. The opportunities are here. The only question is, will you be all in too?
Your Aggie experience is waiting. It's not hiding in the plan that didn't work out, it's in the moments you choose to show up anyways.
– The Division of Student Affairs
P.S. Here's another incredible part about being at Texas A&M: you're surrounded by resources specifically designed to support you while you make an unforgettable college experience.
Ever heard of the Division of Student Affairs? We exist to meet you where you are and help you discover where you're going. Whether you’re finding a student organization that fits, exploring leadership opportunities, discovering the Rec Center, engaging in service or looking for someone to talk to — these aren't just services on a website. They're pathways to the experiences that will make your time here unforgettable.
Explore our website. Walk into the Memorial Student Center and see what's happening. Attend an organization fair. Join an intramural team. Volunteer for an event. Talk to someone in Student Activities about what you're interested in even if it's just a vague idea. We’re literally here to help you turn that little inkling into your next great experience.
Don’t leave any stones unturned, Ags!