I love my university but I’m a free spirit at heart. How can I follow my passion for adventure?

You have your whole life ahead of you, says our elder. Make your passion work for you — but do your research first!

Dear EWC

Hello, I am 19 years old. I am currently attending university and pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering. I love the school and have always had an interest in engineering. However, I have this feeling like something isn’t right. I am a very free spirit and love adventure and exploration. I’ve had thoughts about pursuing a different path. One that involves more exploration and excitement. I’ve recently had interest in geology and archeology. I’ve always wanted to be a Navy Seal. I’ve also thought about sailing the world and maybe becoming a volunteer crew member of a boat. At this time in my life I really don’t know what I want to do. I’m confused and wondering whether or not I should listen to my explorative passion. Life is short and I want to live it out my own way to the full potential. If you can provide me with some advice, I would really appreciate it. I’m lost.

JensPen replies

I am so glad that you have written for some advice regarding your education and your desire for adventure. I totally understand where you are coming from. I too consider myself an adventurer and when I was 30 years into my corporate career, I decided to completely change my life and follow a long-standing passion to be a teacher. After teaching for a few years, I retired and began hiking around the world when I was 60!

You don’t say what year you are in college, but you are young enough to finish your education and still follow your adventurous spirit. Having a solid degree under your belt will not only be a fallback but will be a solid backing for you to move in so many directions. You mention becoming a Navy Seal. Have you explored the requirements? If not, do the research so that you know what your options are. That will surely help with your decision. What is it about archeology and geology that interest you? Again, the more you explore and research the easier it will be to sort out and start to find clarity for your choices.

Don’t let anything extinguish your free spirit; rather, do all you can to nurture it and make it work for you. Follow those passions but do it wisely. You may make a few mistakes but that’s how you learn. Without failure there can be no success. We learn from our mistakes. Dream big! Make a plan, set goals and prepare yourself the best you can to reach them.

You are smart, motivated and insightful. I love the way you are thinking and encourage to explore it all. Your entire life is ahead of you. So many things to do, people to meet experiences to have. Live loud, be true to yourself and do as much as you want — just plan for it.

Good luck to you my friend. Savor your life and if you have any more questions please feel free to write again as we Elders welcome the opportunity to share our life wisdom with Advice Seekers such as yourself.

Letter #: 442941
Category: School