Samantha Yorke is an assistant director and success coach for the Office of Undergraduate Student Success at NSU. She earned her bachelor of science degree in psychology from the University of Central Florida and her master of science degree in higher education from Florida State University. Samantha is a proud Floridian with a passion for empowering others.
Many people have their own definition of success, but which definition of “success” is correct? Well, any and all definitions of success are correct. Success means something different to everyone, depending on their goals, values, interests, skills and experiences.
Success can be obtained through tangible results, like receiving a medal at the end of a 5K, or intangible results, like a warm fuzzy feeling at the end of an awards ceremony. Success can be getting an A on a test for one person, but it can also be getting a C+ on that same test for someone else.
Someone’s definition of success may be to always come in first place, while someone else’s definition of success may be to always help others keep a smile on their face. Ultimately, it is up to you to define what is a success in your life and how you are going to achieve it.
Take some time to think about what you want to achieve while at NSU and what you want to accomplish before walking onto that graduation stage. Consider the legacy you want to leave at NSU and how you want to be remembered by your faculty and peers.
The goals that lead to your success at NSU can be academically-focused, but they also can be personal. Take some time to reflect on both of these avenues of success and stick your goals somewhere you can see them every day. It will motivate you to keep pushing forward.
To start exploring your definition of success, consider joining a student organization and getting involved. You may find people who have similar values and interests, which can further support your goals. You can also shadow professionals in a field you are interested in to see if the work feels fulfilling and exciting to you.
As you begin your “success journey” you may wish to speak to a success coach in the Office of Undergraduate Student Success to break down where you are now and what steps are necessary to help you get to the next point in your travels.
No matter what your journey toward success and achieving your goals looks like, once you feel you have obtained success in a specific area of your life, make sure to celebrate your achievements. Share your success with others by tagging your social media posts with #nsusuccess to show NSU your accomplishments, and keep pushing forward with all of your academic and personal goals. Once you achieve a goal, find a new one to work towards. Achieving success takes a lot of effort, passion and motivation, but is also a moment to be exceptionally proud of.
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Here are a few individuals who chose to share their own definition of success:
“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day-in and day-out.” –Robert Collier
“Success is walking from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm.” –Winston Churchill
“Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.” –Maya Angelou
