Perseverance > Luck: How a 20-Year-Old Turned “No” Into Wins—Money, Majors & Real-World Momentum

A candid talk with Madeline: scholarships, negotiation, study abroad, and choosing the right major—practical strategies for young adults and parents.

Summary

In this conversation, Nathan interviews his niece Madeline Schindlbeck, a 20-year-old chemical engineering student and intern at a law firm. They discuss her journey through college, the challenges she faced, and the importance of perseverance, financial awareness, and strategic decision-making. Madeline shares her experiences studying abroad, changing majors, and the influence of her relationships on her growth. She provides helpful tips for young adults and insights for parents on how to support their children during this transitional phase of life.

Sound bites

"No doesn't always mean no."
"I could have been even farther."
"I think dreams actually don't exist."

Takeaways:

• Madeline emphasizes the importance of perseverance in achieving goals.
• She discusses the importance of financial awareness and seeking scholarships.
• Negotiation skills can turn a 'no' into a potential opportunity.
• Study abroad experiences can significantly boost confidence and career prospects.
• Overcoming fear and anxiety is crucial when facing new challenges.
• Changing majors can lead to a more fulfilling career path.
• Strategic decision-making sets individuals apart from their peers.
• Setting short-term and long-term goals is essential for success.
• Surrounding oneself with goal-oriented individuals fosters growth.
• Creating a trusting environment is key for effective mentorship.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background
01:24 Internship Journey and Perseverance
04:32 Financial Awareness and Scholarship Pursuit
05:55 Negotiation Skills and Perspective
08:48 Study Abroad Experience
10:10 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Opportunities
12:32 Decision to Study Abroad
14:02 Changing Majors and Finding Passion
17:37 Growth and Decision-Making Strategies
17:54 Navigating Passion vs. Practicality
20:24 Setting Short-term and Long-term Goals
21:43 The Impact of Social Circles on Personal Growth
25:36 Reflections on Friendships and Self-Discovery
28:33 Parental Influence and Career Choices
31:39 Advice for Young Adults Transitioning to College
32:37 Creating Open Relationships with Younger Generations

Link:

Newsletter: https://www.habitualgrowth.com/newsletter
Website: https://www.habitualgrowth.com/
Google Play Download Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=br.com.avantsoft.habitualgrowth
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/habitual-growth/id6446201836

Keywords:

internship, perseverance, scholarships, negotiation, study abroad, career change, goals, decision-making, relationships, mentorship, financial awareness, confidence, Gen Z, college to career, life skills