Tip #2 Saying Yes

I’m posting one takeaway each day this week from my first semester at uni. What actually helped, what surprised me, and what I’d tell someone starting fresh. Let me know if any of it hits home!

Just say yes (even if you don’t feel ready).
I didn’t start this year with a master plan.
I wasn’t chasing leadership or awards. Honestly, I didn’t think I’d get anything I applied for.
But every time an opportunity came through my student email, a rep role, a program, a workshop, I said yes.
Even when I felt unsure. Even when I thought I wasn’t qualified.

That mindset changed everything.
As someone who’s autistic and naturally a homebody, saying yes isn’t simple.
Social settings are unpredictable. They drain me.

So I made a deal with myself: I’ll go, and if it’s too much, I’ll leave.

That gave me a sense of control and made trying possible.
And more often than not? I stayed.
I didn’t just survive the event. I contributed. I connected. I grew.

Saying yes gave me things I didn’t even know I wanted:
- Leadership roles in my first semester
- Paid consulting work
- Skills I didn’t think I’d build until later
- A growing sense of confidence

You don’t have to be fearless.
You don’t need a full plan.
Say yes, then figure it out.
The worst outcome is a no.
The best? You surprise yourself