I need to make a confession: I loved school. I loved becoming friends with my teachers (yes, I was that kid). I loved the structure of school assemblies, recess, and extracurriculars. From Pre-K to college, I loved it all. Clearly, I’m a nerd.
This has been on my mind lately because some friends are heading back to school for graduate programs. I immediately asked them questions like:
What’s your schedule this semester?
Do you have your FDOC (“first day of class”) outfit ready?
Have you gone back-to-school shopping?
I was feeling FOMO big time. As expected, I started thinking about going back myself. Transparently, that isn’t in the cards right now for a few reasons (mainly financial). Plus, as someone working in digital communications, getting another degree is not “required” in the same way as other professions. The media industry, at least in my experience, focuses more on the relevant work experience on your résumé.1
Even though enrolling in a formal program may not be feasible, I still wanted to fill this void in some way. That’s when I had an AHA moment! I accidentally already have a personal curriculum.
When you think about it, a lot of the activities we do day-to-day are similar to the curriculums we had in grade school:
Reading books? Literature class!
Reviewing your budget? Greetings, economics.
Training for a 5K? That’s gym class (without the loud whistle).
Drawing/doodling? Art class is now in session!
Discovering new music on Spotify? That’s my version of a music class, but I do wish I could play an instrument too.
Making yourself a meal? Welcome to culinary school!
Spending time with a pet? It’s time for zoology!
Writing a newsletter? Hello, creative writing!
You could go on and on.
This all sounds really silly (because it is), but I do love the idea of shifting your mindset. It’s easy to go through the motions and not appreciate those smaller moments that make up your daily life. At times, these activities can feel quite minuscule, but they are all part of the grand scheme of building yourself.
All of this to say: I’m proud to share that I’m pursuing a degree at Fletcher Rowe University majoring in self-fulfillment.
And I hope you’re pursuing something too!
With love,
Fletcher Rowe
For this week’s music recommendation…
I wanted to spotlight someone I recently saw perform live: Maren Morris! Earlier this month, I took myself on a date to Port Chester, NY (via Metro-North Railroad, of course) to see her perform at the historic Capitol Theatre. Her live vocals were as impressive as expected! She makes great music that has elements of country and pop expertly intertwined.
Her new EP Intermission is quite vulnerable and beautifully written. Hope you enjoy!
(I’ve also kept my Fletcher’s Favorites playlist updated with other new songs if you’re interested)
I fully support those who are pursuing further education purely out of passion or interest! Honestly, if more people could do that, I think the world would be a better place.
I love reading your flyer! Especially because it is so positive and uplifting! Helps me know your character better even though we are miles apart and seldom see each other. I love you, Fletcher!
Love this idea! I find myself doing this at times. Glad I’m not alone