Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone

Today (Wednesday 4th March 2020), I participated in my university’s undergraduate research fair.

And that is a big thing for me because I stepped out of my comfort zone to do so. I do not like talking. And I do not like people. But somehow, I ended up presenting a project to a bunch of strangers. Plus I was tired, a bit sick and anxious. Always a great combo.

Last term, in one of my classes I worked on a big research project. It was an experience I really loved because it allowed me to use everything I have learned in economics before. I made friends because the class was small. I became more confident in asking for help and presenting. I learned to write and how to analyze data. It was an experience I will always cherish.

So when applications for my school’s research fair opened, I applied. Turns out, of the 150 applications submitted mine was 1 of 50 being presented. And what makes it even more special is that it was the only economics project there. Most of the projects were science based or essays. Maybe its just my program, but as an undergrad econ student, we do not get to do research or write papers. So I definitely seized the opportunity to show I can do it too. And I want to go to grad school one day, so this is such a good start for me.

It was only me. I wasn’t in a group, I didn’t know anyone there and I didn’t have friends. And that’s okay. I got to explain to a bunch of strangers what it was about.

At one point, the professor I worked on this project with, as well as the undergraduate program director for economics came by (I have a feeling she might have taken/forced him with her but who knows) So it was nice to see someone I knew. Well I didn’t know him but it was nice to speak to him.

PS. if I look like a mess, its because I was a bit sick, anxious and could care less about how I look.

Not that you care, but my project was about how life microinsurance can be used to help Canadian households deal with funerals. Unless you have had to experience the costs with funerals, you will not realize how expensive it is. That is why life insurance exists, to help with these costs, but not everyone owns life insurance. So what are their options?

Basically what this is trying to find out is whether microinsurance, which is prevalent in developing countries can be used in Canada to help families deal with these costs instead of having to go into debt.

At the end of the day, I do not regret participating. I may not have won any award, but I stepped out of my comfort zone and honestly, that is all that matters to me.

Fun fact, after I was done with this fair I had a 3hour class and then had to go home to go start and submit an essay that was due at 11:59PM. Yes it was a very busy day and I am exhausted, and I am tired of speaking. I need a few days to recover if I am being honest because, I am NOT a people person.