Everyone grows up with dreams of becoming something special. We map out our future careers and set our sights on the path we think we’re meant to follow. I, too, had a dream that I held close to my heart—to become a pharmacist. But as life unfolded, I learned that sometimes, the best plans are the ones we don’t make ourselves.
As the only daughter in my family, I was blessed with immense love and support, especially from my father, who believed in providing me with the best education. I attended Mary Immaculate Girls High School, a convent that laid a strong foundation for me, academically and morally. I was certain that after high school, I would step into the world of pharmacy. But just before my 10th board exams, a medical emergency required me to undergo surgery. With determination and a few stitches, I completed my exams, but I knew my plans might have to shift.
Despite my best efforts, my scores didn’t meet the requirements for the top science colleges. But with my family’s support, I enrolled in a nearby school, Santa Cruz Higher Secondary, and cleared my 12th boards with hope renewed. I passed the entrance exam for a pharmacy program, but due to unforeseen criteria, my admission fell through. My heart was heavy, but my brother had quietly prepared a backup plan. He had already reserved a spot for me in the B.Sc. program at Dhempe College of Arts and Science, so I enrolled there, trusting that perhaps life was guiding me in a new direction.
At Dhempe, I found an unexpected joy. I met inspiring professors, built friendships, and created memories I cherish. My senior most professor, Mr. Agshikar, kindled in me a newfound love for geology, a subject I had barely considered before. But even then, pharmacy was a dream I hadn’t fully let go of. I started to wonder if my true path was just waiting for me to open my heart to it.
Then came a turning point. During my fourth semester, we were assigned a geology project to present in class. I put my heart into it, designing an attractive report and putting all my creativity and knowledge into my work. But when I presented it, my professor, Mr. Manoj, shocked me by dismissing it in front of everyone. He told me I’d receive a zero. I was heartbroken. All that effort, the late nights and passion, seemed to mean nothing in that moment. Tears rolled down my face, but I knew I had a choice: I could accept defeat, or I could try again.
So, I took a deep breath, gathered my courage, and asked sir for another chance. He agreed, and I poured myself into reworking the project with even more focus and determination. When the day of the presentation arrived, I was nervous, but I believed in myself. I delivered my work with everything I had, and to my amazement, Sir stood up, clapping, and said, “This is what I expected from you—you will make an excellent teacher.” In that moment, he wasn’t just my professor; he was the person who helped me realize my true calling. That moment marked a turning point. With my professor’s encouragement and the realization of my own abilities, I made the decision to pursue teaching. I continued my studies in Geology, putting aside my dream of pharmacy, and welcomed the path life had led me to. I am also grateful to my husband who always stands by my side and supports me in everything I do. It is because of his encouragement I could further pursue my B.Ed after getting married that helped me enhance my skills.
Today, I am an IB PYP Educator at Sunshine Worldwide School, living a purpose that fulfills me deeply. As I reflect on my journey, I see how every setback was part of a greater plan, shaping me into the person I am today. Each challenge taught me about self-belief, and the importance of finding happiness in every situation. Now, I can connect so much of my journey to my school’s philosophy: to be competent and to find joy in every experience.
For anyone who has ever faced setbacks in life, remember that sometimes, our biggest challenges lead us to our greatest purpose. Trust in the process, believe in yourself, and know that everything happens for a reason. God truly has plans for each one of us, and if we accept life’s twists and turns with an open heart, we’ll find ourselves exactly where we’re meant to be.
Thank You
-Sneha Chowgule
I admire your willingness to step out your comfort zone and try new things. I admire how you bounced back from failure and achieved new goals.