Chapter 1: A Journey of Learning

Reflecting on my experiences over the past few years, I realize that the lessons I learned far surpassed the value of my degree.

Let me be frank — my academic pursuits were my top priority. I invested not just my finances but my heart and soul into them.

In September 2020, I was thrilled to seize the opportunity to pursue a double degree program in Austria and Italy, reminiscent of the Erasmus experience. I eagerly packed my life into one suitcase and purchased a one-way ticket. It was goodbye to my previous life!

This was a dream come true, and I was determined to make it happen. Nevertheless, it wasn't all smooth sailing. I found myself drifting away from friends, having to abandon my sports career, and moving to a costly new city. To manage expenses, I juggled two or three jobs while attending two universities (Vienna and Risky). Additionally, I needed to enroll in extra undergraduate courses since my degree wasn’t fully acknowledged.

The struggle was real. I lost many friendships, battled depression, and even discovered my first gray hair, which I promptly dyed away!

It was incredibly challenging: no downtime, no vacations, no social life—just me and my laptop, preparing for exams day and night.

Finally, in October 2022, I graduated with outstanding grades. I successfully defended my thesis and achieved a score of 105 out of 110. I felt immense pride in my dual diplomas and all the work experience I had amassed.

However, reality soon set in.

It became clear that my hard work and academic credentials were not the sole determinants of success. I learned that other skills and experiences held greater significance.

Section 1.1: The Power of Self-Confidence

Self-confidence can often outweigh mere knowledge or experience.

Having been involved in sports from a young age, I began swimming at six and by eleven, I was competing at national levels. I not only excelled academically, earning a scholarship throughout my undergraduate studies, but I also pursued two master's degrees abroad.

Yet, I realized that possessing skills and knowledge is futile without self-belief. You can be a top expert, but if you constantly doubt yourself, you'll never fulfill your potential.

For instance, I attempted to launch an Instagram blog focused on rehabilitation and preventive exercises, but my self-doubt led to its failure. When I first considered blogging over a year ago, I constantly questioned:

Who would even be interested in my stories?

But had I continued to dwell on those thoughts, I wouldn't be sharing this article now and earning from it.

While my blogging income isn’t substantial, it at least covers half of my semester fees from one of my universities.

The takeaway? A positive mindset and confidence are vital in achieving your goals.

Section 1.2: Discipline is Key

Another crucial lesson I learned through sports was the importance of discipline: showing up for every training session regardless of circumstances.

Even on days when I felt lazy or ill, I had to be present.

This commitment transformed my life. It instilled in me qualities of discipline and patience that proved invaluable.

In the photo below, you can see me with a bronze medal, which at the time didn’t qualify me for international competitions.

However, just three months later, I stood on the podium again, this time with a gold medal and a ticket to the European Championship.

Incredibly, I accomplished it!

Discipline was the key. I consistently attended every training session, and I was always the first to arrive and the last to leave.

Whether in sports, academics, or writing, dedication is essential.

If you're currently pursuing a goal and feel stagnant, don't lose heart. Track your progress over the coming months and celebrate the growth you've achieved! Witnessing your improvement can be incredibly gratifying.

Chapter 2: The Importance of Connections

Establishing strong relationships in your professional network can significantly impact your career success.

I could easily write an entire article on this topic, as I consider myself fortunate to have incredible people in my life. Having supportive friends and contacts is invaluable, a lesson I learned the hard way.

In my earlier years, I was quite introverted and preferred to keep to myself, believing that a couple of close friends were sufficient. I was mistaken.

Living in isolation stunts personal growth; you miss out on vital information, opportunities, and the uplifting energy that good friends provide.

Reflecting on my journey, I cannot fathom where I would be without the remarkable individuals in my life. I wouldn't be writing this blog if a friend hadn’t introduced me to it and guided me in getting started. I also wouldn’t have moved to Austria without friends I met during a trip.

By expanding my social circle, I learned English, secured employment, started this blog, and gained invaluable knowledge that contributed to my personal growth. Most importantly, I became happier and more fulfilled.

I realized that genuine friendships attract like-minded people, so it’s crucial to invest in these relationships as well.

Valuable connections are priceless assets that don't come with a price tag but are worth more than anything else!

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The first video, "Experiences That Taught Me More Than My Expensive Degree," delves into the valuable life lessons learned beyond formal education.

The second video, "Podcasts Taught Me More Than My $55,000 University Degree," explores how alternative forms of learning can provide more insight than traditional schooling.