Education is often touted as the key to success, but the journey to finding your career path is not always straightforward. Growing up, my parents instilled in me the importance of education and urged me to pursue my dreams, despite their lack of formal education themselves. While they couldn’t offer much guidance on career choices, their unwavering support fueled my ambition.
I excelled in school and was elated when I gained admission to university. My father, though he did not fully grasp the intricacies of my chosen program, was proud of my academic achievements. I pursued a degree in Landscape Design and Management, a discipline focused on creating sustainable indoor and outdoor spaces, preserving the natural environment, and promoting sustainable urban development. Essentially, it aims to strike a balance between humans and nature.
Upon graduating, I embarked on my national service with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where my passion for environmental conservation and sustainable development blossomed. Through my work, I advocated for climate action, environmental preservation, and sustainable practices. However, I soon realized that awareness alone was not enough to drive meaningful change. Changing behaviors and ingrained habits required strategic communication and targeted interventions.
This realization led me to explore the field of Development Communication, which harnesses the power of strategic communication to effect positive social change. It was the missing piece of the puzzle that I had been searching for. While the decision to pivot to this field was not immediate, guidance from mentors and friends helped me recognize that my passion for the environment and my desire to influence behaviors aligned perfectly with the principles of Development Communication.
Enrolling in a master’s program in Development Communication has been a transformative experience. As a former science student, delving into the realm of social sciences has broadened my perspective and equipped me with invaluable skills. I am learning how to craft compelling messages, leverage media effectively, and understand the cultural and psychological factors that shape behavior. The intersection of science and social sciences in creating impactful change is both enlightening and inspiring.
This journey has prompted me to reflect on our educational system and the need to integrate critical communication skills early on. Why is there a disconnect between science and social sciences when they are inherently interconnected? These questions fuel my curiosity and anticipation for what lies ahead.
The transition to Development Communication has been challenging yet immensely rewarding. It has provided me with the tools to transform my passion for the environment into a profession that drives tangible change. I am excited to continue my journey and contribute to building a more sustainable and conscious world through effective communication.
To those contemplating a career or academic shift, I urge you to follow your passions, seek guidance, and embrace the unknown. Sometimes, unexpected paths lead to the most fulfilling destinations. I am ready to play a part in the conversation for change and use my newfound skills to make a positive impact. After all, change begins with communication, and I am eager to be a catalyst for that change.
