What if there are parallel universes where our alternate choices lead to different outcomes? Imagine a world where every “what if” takes shape, where dreams deferred in one universe come to life in another.
Parallel Universe: Pursuing the Dream
For Julienne, an incoming 4th-year communication student with aspirations that once pointed her toward a nursing university, this idea is not just a whimsical daydream but a deeply emotional cut on a dream that slipped through her fingers.
She always envisioned herself walking the hallowed halls of her dream university. From the moment she first learned about it, she felt a magnetic pull toward its promise of excellence, opportunity, and growth.
It was more than just a school; it was a symbol of all her hopes and aspirations, guiding her through countless nights of studying and striving.
But life, with its unpredictable twists and turns, had other plans.
Despite her hard work and dedication, the gates of her dream university remained just out of reach. The disappointment was deep, a bittersweet blend of sorrow and acceptance. The university became her “The One That Got Away”, a lost love in the world of her new academic life.
In a parallel universe, Julienne imagines a life where she is attending her dream university, experiencing the thrill of being part of a community that inspired her to reach for the stars. The comfort lies in the thought that somewhere, in a parallel universe, she is living out the dream that slipped away in this one.
“I think the idea of having this parallel universe would be really fascinating,” Julienne shares, her voice tinged with both longing and curiosity.
“Fascinating in a way that it would really comfort me from my grief or regrets (I literally grief just because I wasn’t accepted) of losing the university I’ve always dreamed of attending. But, I also thought na I would be really curious about it because hindi na siya reality for me. So may balance both comfort and curiosity.”
When asked how her life might have been different if she had attended her dream university, Julienne reflects on the potential changes in her social and professional circles.
“Siguro, isa na siguro na iba yung magiging connections ko na mag-be-benefit din sa akin to boost my confidence and would literally motivate me to think beyond my own limitations,” she explains, envisioning a peers and mentors who would have encouraged her to transcend her perceived boundaries.
“Well, parang gusto ko rin isipin na magkakaroon ito ng impact sa trajectory ng life ko sa career, sa goals ko, etc. Life would really be different.”
The alternate path would have been paved with new friendships, mentors, and experiences that could have shaped her confidence and career trajectory in many ways. Attending her dream university could have opened doors to opportunities that seemed out of reach, providing her with a platform to achieve her aspirations.
Beyond Comparisons: The “What ifs”
Despite the allure of imagining a different reality, Julienne maintains a grounded perspective on her achievements.
“No, never naman pumasok sa isip ko na mag-compare,” she asserts, emphasizing the importance of personal growth over external comparisons.
“For me, most of us experience the same struggles sa school, so it depends really kung sino or anong type ng student ka sa school. Pero gusto ko rin isipin na, it takes a lot of effort and dedication to reach a certain achievement, we all deserve congratulations and a pat on the shoulders.”
She acknowledges the common struggles faced by students, regardless of their university, and celebrates the effort and dedication that go into achieving one’s goals. This perspective of Julienne highlights her understanding that success is not solely defined by the institution attended, but by the perseverance and hard work invested in the journey.
Regret and “what ifs” are natural companions to paths not taken. Julienne has found ways to cope with these feelings, recognizing the factors that influenced her choices.
“Una sa lahat, na-acknowledge ko naman na yung mga feelings na associated sa past choices ko,” she shares candidly.
“Maraming factors din kasi ang envolved, kung bakit di ako natuloy sa dream university ko. 4th year college na rin ako, so it’s been almost 5 years pero hirap pa rin ako maka-move on.”
“So, I do my best to think positive and stay open sa situation ko,” Julienne continues, demonstrating her resilience. “It worked naman for me! Because my college life became so much better because my college friends were in it. Sila talaga ang naging coping mechanism ko,”
“Is it right to say that?” she adds and laughs.
Her friends have been a crucial part of her coping mechanism, transforming her college experience into a source of joy and support. Their presence has helped her navigate the emotionas of unfulfilled dreams, offering a sense of belonging and comfort.
Dreams in a Different Reality
Julienne reflects on the specific dreams and goals she might have pursued differently in a parallel universe.
“At the top of my list, maging competitive and i-ace lahat ng exams,” she reveals, showcasing her drive for academic excellence.
“Isa talaga yun sa mga na-e-envision ko na goal ko before, kasi alam ko sa sarili ko na magiging passionate and favorite ko talaga ang gagawin ko.”
In this alternate reality, she imagines herself thriving in an environment that nurtures her intellectual curiosity and ambition.
The Reality of Deferred Dreams
If Julienne could offer advice to her parallel universe self, it would be a reminder of resilience and self-kindness.
“Life is not a linear journey,” she reflects, drawing from her own experiences.
“So challenges and setbacks are really inevitable. Whenever you get tired, don’t hesitate to ask for help and do not forget to be kind to yourself. Recognize your value, and always go back to the reasons why you fought so hard to get there.”
These words resonate with the wisdom gained from her own journey, a testament to the strength required to pursue her dreams. Her advice centers on the importance of perseverance and self-compassion in the face of adversity.
She envisions a deeper connection with herself; her understanding of her ambitions of the potential of that alternate universe. Attending her dream university might have provided her with a clearer sense of purpose and a stronger foundation for her future endeavors.
“Siguro attending this dream university would have changed my mindset on everything,” she muses, contemplating the potential impact on her outlook. “Most significantly, mas magkaroon ako ng deeper understanding and connection sa sarili ko.”
The concept of parallel universes offers a tantalizing glimpse into the myriad possibilities that our choices can create. It invites us to ponder how different decisions might lead to alternate versions of ourselves, each with its own unique experiences and growth.
Yet, Julienne’s reality points to the importance of accepting and embracing the path we are on. Her journey through college, shaped by the friendships and experiences she has encountered, has been meaningful in its own right.
The dream of attending her ideal university may remain a poignant “what if,” but it does not diminish the value of her current reality.
In contemplating parallel universes, we are reminded that every choice we make contributes to the person we become. Her story highlights the resilience and adaptability required to navigate life’s twists and turns. While the dream of a different path may linger, it is the strength found in the present that truly defines us.
Life is not linear, and the paths we walk are filled with both challenges and triumphs. Embrace the journey, find strength in the present, and continue to dream, for it is in the pursuit of our aspirations that we discover the true essence of our potential.
WIth reports from Kyla Marie Cuba
