Statement of Purpose: Ten Strands continues to introduce its staff through statements of purpose that reveal the motivations and ambitions of their work. Today, we hear from Xun “Judy” He Ten Strands’ data initiative analyst intern. Judy reflects on her journey from growing up in Shenzhen, China, where she initially dreamed of becoming a dancer, to pursuing a path toward medicine, only to discover her passion for education and the environment during her transformative years in the United States.
Growing up in China, I attended a small elementary school in the middle of Shenzhen. There, I developed a passion for dance and spent countless hours practicing. I auditioned for multiple elite secondary schools through special programs that valued artistic talents over academic scores. I was accepted into one of the best schools in Shenzhen and continued with my dance career. After six years of hard work and preparation, I managed to ace the college entrance exam—a single opportunity for students to demonstrate their academic excellence and gain university admission. I went to an elite school and pursued a path to become a doctor. Currently, I am continuing my studies in med school.
One quote has inspired my career journey since freshman year of college: “You can’t connect the dots looking forward, you can only connect them looking backwards” (Steve Jobs 2005). Above, I described what my life would look like if I tried to connect the dots moving forward. Countless times, I have tried to do so and prove the quote wrong, but never have I succeeded. In fact, it’s impossible. I have lived by this quote ever since I heard it, and here is my journey—connecting the dots backward.
My first year in the States was challenging; I felt like a feather drifting through the sky—weightless, unmoored, and trembling with each passing wind. I wanted to go home. To my relief, my ESL teacher’s support became a lifeline, transforming my despair into a bridge between cultures and helping me find my place in this new environment. I am incredibly grateful for her, and, for the first time, I felt the power of educational impact. I spent the next seven years growing up on the beautiful island of Oahu. We hiked, farmed, swam, surfed, and spent countless hours immersed in nature. Nature was an integral part of living on the island—it was what made our life whole. It felt simple, slow, and satisfying.
Then came the college years. At the end of high school, I felt lost and confused. It seemed like everyone around me knew where they were headed, and I couldn’t even begin to answer the “where will you be in five years?” question. Looking for change and hoping to experience different environments, I chose to attend Berkeley. This was quite the pivot. Life moved much faster in the Bay, and it seemed like everyone had a clear purpose and an urgency to get to the finish line. Again, I felt like a feather in the wind. I had no time to explore or think, and I wasn’t in a position to take some time off. In desperation, I chose data science as my major, hoping it would ease my job search after graduation and . . .
It was one of the best decisions I made. I loved it. The tools at my disposal felt like a magic wand, empowering me to make a difference.
One question remained: Where would I use my powers? This contemplation brought me back to my days on the island, sunbathing and surfing, supported by my teachers and peers. It became clear that I wanted to use my skills in education and the environment, ensuring that future generations could enjoy the natural beauty I cherished growing up. At the intersection of my skills and values, I found Ten Strands. Our mission and our initiatives gave me a sense of purpose and the motivation to chug forward. It will guide me as I navigate to my next dot, helping me use my powers to create a meaningful impact in education and environmental sustainability.
Connecting the dots backward, I see a journey shaped by pivotal moments, decisions, and the support of those around me. None of the major pivots were planned or expected. Their significance only became clear after we arrived at our next destination. This journey doesn’t end, and it’s important to realize that avoiding the urge to connect the dots looking forward doesn’t mean just going with the flow. It means continuing to do things that make you feel fulfilled without setting a concrete and predetermined “finish line.” Keep following your values and let your superpower steer the way. The next dot will naturally emerge.
2 Responses
What a great story and reflection. I love the idea of connecting the dots backwards–that is so different from the advice that most high school and college students get, that they need to be focused, declare a major early, make sure they take the right classes to graduate on time, etc. I hope you will share your perspectives with other young people and encourage them NOT to enter the Race to Nowhere.
Thank you, Judy, for your beautiful story and reflections. I love the idea of connecting the dots backwards. That is so different from the advice that many high school and college students receive, to be focused, to declare a major early, take all the “right” classes to graduate on time and take the next linear step. I hope you share your perceptions and experiences with other young people and encourage them NOT to enter the Race to Nowhere!