2021 in Retrospect

It was an interesting start to 2021 as the News waves were reeling with the results of the Presidential election. I was still basking in the euphoria of Biden’s win as the news meant so much for me and my plans for the year

Academics: This was supposed to be my final semester to bag my Masters Degree in NanoEngineering at the North Carolina A&T State University… and boy did it come with its headache.

My Advisor definitely has his version of the story, but in my books, he didn’t want to let me go. Thankfully, the system prevailed and I earned my degree — Magna Cum Laude

June 2021 will forever be a red-lettered day.

Post-Graduation: My number one priority was landing that job upon graduation. With 150+ Applications — (The unfortunate reality for International students), I finally had a slew of 3 back-to-back Interviews — 1 at Google, 1 at Amazon and 1 at “my current job”

The rejection mails came in quick succession, but the last email held some good news. The one that brought a smile to my face. With that news, I turned down the PhD offer.

Then the devil struck. I had announced to my friends that I couldn’t wait to start my new role the following month. I had bought the Suits, was bidding my colleagues bye, unbeknownst of what was ahead. For some reason, there was a delay in processing my Work Permits. I was on the edge of losing this job and for 48 hours when I had to update my incoming manager on the situation of things, I only had a cup of cornflakes. She said HR had to make a decision and boy was my heart in my mouth.

About 60hrs later, I got the news that my resumption date had been postponed. Finally, my documents were approved but the Postal Service had other plans. I was scheduled to receive my Work documents the week preceding my resumption date. I was in ecstatic mood as I tracked its movement till I saw “Package Lost in Transit” or something of such. I was livid, for two days, no one could tell me where was package was. It was finally rectified on the last possible day and voila!

Relationships: Distance was the biggest obstacle in matters of the heart. Had to take an L in this area, but then, we locomote. Only God knows the future.

I built new friendships. Shout out to the folks at ARTV too.

Finance: Thankful for growth

Weight Loss: I added more pounds. 2022 we burn these calories