What else now?

Copyright EPFL Adrien Buttier

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For those who, unfortunately, will not be continuing with us, remember that every situation can be an opportunity to bounce back. Facing failure, remember that it does not define your worth.

Don’t be too hard on yourself. We all have ups and downs, and true strength is not found in perfection, but in the ability to rise and move forward despite setbacks.

By taking the time to reflect on what happened and looking ahead, new opportunities will unfold before you, believe it!

What happened?

It is possible that you chose a course of study that, over time, did not end up being right for you. Perhaps you lacked motivation or self-confidence, whether during the semesters or the exams. It’s also possible that you have not yet managed to establish a mindset conducive to success, with effective stress management, a good learning strategy, a rigorous plan, and a routine that allows you to keep going in the long run. If you live far from home, this might have impacted your daily well-being. Personal or financial difficulties could have also prevented you from focusing fully on your studies. Lastly, it is possible that you did not feel comfortable with the new university learning conditions, whether due to the support from teachers and assistants or the selectivity of exams.

What it does to you

It is natural to feel sadness, anger, or disappointment in this situation. These emotions reflect the importance you place on your journey and your future. In an environment where performance and profitability are valued, it is understandable to feel lost and helpless. This can lead to a decrease in motivation, a lack of self-confidence, and doubts about one’s abilities. Finding perspective is not always easy in such moments, and the desire to isolate oneself may arise.

Questioning your choice of study or rethinking your project can feel unsettling, but it is also an opportunity to better align your path with what truly suits you.

Rediscovering meaning and glimpsing new possibilities

You will find a new project that suits you and motivates you!

To achieve this, it is important to give meaning back to your journey and explore all the possibilities available to you. Gradually, you will be able to better manage your stress, strengthen your self-esteem, and develop your resources. You will adjust your goals to align them with your aspirations and define a clear action plan to move forward with peace of mind. All of this is to ultimately embrace change with confidence and optimism…

If you would like support in this process, the EPFL Social Consultation service is available to offer advice and tailored support.

Ressources

Meet an advisor from the EPFL social consultation

Social advisors are available to offer you support, work with you to find personalized solutions and refer you to the right specialists if necessary.

Transversal Skills and Career Center

The Career Center offers many services to EPFL students willing to prepare themselves for their entry in the labour market. They can take advantage of them during their studies and up to 6 months after graduation.