Finding my Passion-My Purpose

The Start of Everything

Orthodontistry, optometry, nursing, engineering, architecture, and computer science. Six majors. Six attempts to find my calling through the diversity of choices that determined my future. Not only did I struggle to find where I belonged, but I lost sight of my passion along the way. It wasn’t until I entered the infamous business field that I found my purpose and, more so, who I was. Within the vastness of the professional world, it was Marketing and Management Information Systems (MIS) that aligned with my passions and aspirations.                                                                From an early age, I’ve always seen life through a creative lens. School projects, art class, or even a simple task that allowed a sliver of creative expression; I just had to incorporate an element of my style that screamed Kaitlan. This creative drive, engraved in my life, has now extended beyond artistry and into the realm of innovation. I’ve crafted new ways of improving my livelihood by creative problem-solving, whether it was becoming my own nail technician, mastering the brewing of coffee, or even quickly adapting to new software. I’ve found a love for innovation and a continual passion for learning new things. These qualities paved the way for me to pursue Marketing and Management Information Systems (MIS), where I'm met with so many opportunities to integrate these passions into the world of business and technology.                                                                                                                                                           Transitioning to Bauer as a sophomore was very daunting, as I was surrounded by people who were well-immersed in business. Instead of being discouraged by the success of the people around me, I sought out to become one of them. I searched for organizations to help guide me and found my place in the Asian Business Student Association (ABSA). I ran for a leadership position and was chosen as a Media Director within the marketing department, where the blend of creativity and strategy came hand in hand. When asked what I wanted out of this position, I shared my fear of public speaking and how overcoming this would be the foundation of my overall growth. Surprisingly not only did I successfully conquer this fear, I discovered a genuine love for it. I even found myself confidently hosting a talent show in front of hundreds of members- a feat I never would have even considered. This was only just the beginning as my position required consistent deadlines, mandatory attendance, networking within hundreds of members, and a lot of creative power. I learned team collaboration, time management skills, problem-solving, and even the fundamentals of marketing. All of which I couldn’t have obtained in a mere business class. I constantly put myself in uncomfortable situations to seize every opportunity as an experience to improve. I even grew in places I didn’t anticipate needed improvement. I’ve not only found who I am as a person, but what kind of leader I strive to be in the future. Despite how far I’ve progressed, there is always room for improvement. Until then, I will continue to take risks and embrace challenges knowing that failure is possible but ultimately will lead in my growth and development.       As I reflect on my time in ABSA with great gratitude, it has only set the foundation for my future endeavors. I’ve even ventured into developing this very site where I display my portfolio and document my journey through these mini blogs, encasing the small steppingstones in my accomplishments. I want this to be a safe place to truly encourage myself and others in my position. I’ve created a small business of my own marketing products across several social media platforms and continue to expand my network through joining organizations and engaging with companies physically and digitally. Looking ahead, I envision myself as a data analyst role at Google and manage a small business, confident that my drive and passion will continue to make an impact. Regardless of it being my first year in business, I navigated the challenges of inexperience with determination, and took significant steps towards overcoming my obstacles. As my boundless future awaits, I look forward to the person I know I can become and leave my mark in this society with a Piece of Kait.