For many students around the world, getting into an Ivy League university is the ultimate dream. It is believed that a degree from a prestigious institution is a golden ticket to a successful life, free from struggles. However, that is not always the case. In today’s competitive world, even Ivy League graduates are facing difficulties. One isn’t immune to life’s challenges anymore.
Dr. Marika Niihori’s story is proof of this harsh reality. Despite earning a PhD in Physics from the University of Cambridge, her job search was anything but easy. After completing her doctorate in October last year, she expected to land a high-paying job effortlessly. She started applying to multiple companies, only to face 70 rejections.
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Seeing friends move forward in their careers while she struggled to secure a job left her feeling isolated and lonely. She documented her journey on Instagram, where she shared experiencing emotional challenges and self-doubt after graduating from Cambridge.
“I’m constantly battling that feeling of loneliness, even in a city like London, where everyone seems to be on their own path,” she wrote.
This led to her taking an involuntary career break. However, that became a blessing in disguise.
“I thought completing a PhD would bring clarity to my future. But having the flexibility and privilege to take some time off has been a blessing in disguise,” she admitted.
After months of uncertainty, Niihori finally landed a job at a biotech startup. She shared the happy news on Instagram.
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Her journey serves as a reminder that success is never guaranteed – even for those with Ivy League degrees. Everyone faces setbacks, but persistence and resilience can eventually lead to new beginnings.