When I talk to students - and I still think of myself more…
“When I talk to students - and I still think of myself more than anything as a kind of professor on leave - they say, 'Well, how do I get to do what you do?'... And I say, 'Well, you have to start out by being a failed piano major.' And my point to them is don't try to have a 10-year plan. Find the next thing that interests you and follow that.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker advises against rigid long‑term planning, urging exploration of immediate interests and learning from failure.
In simple terms: Don’t plan far ahead; follow what interests you now.
Key Takeaway
Embrace curiosity and learn from setbacks.
Themes
career development
learning
risk taking
Mood
encouraging
reflective
Type
motivational
advice
When to use this quote
- college graduation
- career change
- creative projects
Key Concepts
growth mindset
non‑linear paths
Questions to Reflect On
- What small interest could you pursue today?
- How can failure become a stepping stone?
A Different Perspective
Long‑term goals still matter for direction.