# From High School Dropout to Elite Computer Science Graduate
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Chapter 1: My Journey Begins
In this article, I aim to share my personal journey and behavioral strategies that took me from nearly dropping out of high school to successfully completing my Bachelor's thesis at TU Berlin and qualifying to write my Master's thesis at TU Wien in Austria. During my high school years, I often felt disheartened and lacked motivation, but over time, my mindset evolved. Embracing this journey has taught me that it’s an ongoing process; the key is to make it a part of your lifestyle.
How can you articulate the habits that feel instinctual to you? Should others emulate them? I’ll give it a shot, and I welcome your thoughts.
Multitasking is a challenging skill that doesn’t come naturally; it requires deliberate practice and consistency. However, some aspects of life will inevitably falter, and this is what I refer to as the "triangle of misery." Ideally, one would aim for balance, but as we know, that isn't always achievable.
The Triangle of Misery
I must confess that I often prioritized work and personal development over socializing with friends and family. Ultimately, the responsibility lies with you; you set your own expectations and must bear the outcomes.
Listen to your body, be mindful of your emotions, and treat yourself kindly. Find ways to engage your interests—some days you may prefer reading, while other times, you might enjoy solving problems while listening to music or watching a YouTube video. There are countless resources available to make studying enjoyable. Personally, when I'm drained, I study with a friend, and we motivate each other. At other times, I thrive on a routine, eating well and managing my emotions.
Regardless of your approach, maintain control over your emotions. Consider them like a heartbeat; there will be highs and lows, but you want to avoid feeling completely drained.
Heartbeat Analogy
Whether faced with setbacks or triumphs, remember that better days are ahead, and it’s essential to persevere. Stay humble, even in success, and focus on your path to achieving your goals. Celebrate your accomplishments, but only after you’ve tackled all your responsibilities—it’s not over until you reach the finish line.
A wise saying goes, "Show me your friends, and I’ll show you your future." This holds true on multiple levels—not just financially, but mentally and physically. As students, we often find that studying in libraries or quiet spaces with others can boost our productivity. The presence of diligent peers can inspire you to stay on track. While it can create pressure, this is a healthy motivator. Embrace this instinctual drive to succeed among your peers.
People often find motivation from various sources. For some, it’s the joy of learning, for others, the pursuit of financial rewards, and for many, the desire to meet personal expectations. This pressure is beneficial; it helps clarify whether you’re truly on the right path or merely wasting time. Accept that pressure is a natural part of life, and use it to your advantage. It often pushes us into meaningful actions and helps alleviate feelings of stagnation.
Feeling down from time to time is completely normal; it’s a sign that you need a break. Allow yourself to recharge, whether for a day or an entire week. Use this time wisely and plan for your return, which can make your downtime even more enjoyable, knowing you’ll tackle your tasks afterward.
The Law of Not Caring—Focus on what’s truly important to you and engage with values you can control. While you can't change the outcome of a poor math exam, you can learn from it and avoid repeating past mistakes. Acknowledge the things beyond your control, and prioritize what’s best for you in the moment, even if it’s not the easiest choice; just remember that the consequences will follow.
Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok can be major distractions. While there’s nothing wrong with connecting with friends online, mindlessly scrolling through feeds when you could be productive is counterproductive. Instead, prioritize your tasks and enjoy leisure time afterward, even if it involves social media—you’ve earned it.
The Importance of Balance
Even if you’re driven to work relentlessly, it’s crucial to carve out time for friends and family for your mental well-being. This isn't just about taking breaks from stress but being genuinely present—communicative and ready to share a laugh.
Though I could convey these ideas in numerous ways, I believe you can interpret them from your perspective. Strive to be the best version of yourself; after all, this is your life. If you desire something, pursue it.
The End.
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Chapter 2: Challenges in Academia
This video, "How Difficult Are German Universities?" dives into the challenges faced by international students in Germany, offering insights into academic expectations and support systems.
Chapter 3: Finding the Right University
The second video, "Friendly University List for Non-CS People Who Want to Do MS in CS," provides valuable guidance for those exploring suitable universities in Computer Science.