26/09/2026
If there’s one thing that I’d like to share with those still in their 20s, it is this: rejection doesn’t always mean you’re not good enough. Sometimes, it suggests that life is taking you somewhere else. Here is why, based on a few of my personal experiences:
- My first research article was rejected by a Q2 journal but later accepted by a Q1 journal.
- My PhD application was rejected by TU Delft but later accepted into NUS.
- I was rejected for a QS Engineer position but later offered a Project Manager position.
The lesson here is that life can be unpredictable and rarely follows a straight line. When things don’t work out as planned, learn from the experience, take some time to improve, and move on. One rejection should never be enough to make you give up.
And of course, our achievements are never ours alone. Behind many opportunities are people who support us, believe in us, and encourage us along the way. These people may be our family, friends, peers, teachers, and supervisors. Sometimes, even one positive comment can change the direction of your life.