Rejection is Redirection

Everything builds on what came before 

By Khushi Mirpuri 

Graohic by Catarina Koehler

We all know that rejection hits like a wall. Whether it’s not getting picked for a leadership role or missing out on an internship you worked so hard for, rejection hurts. But what if hearing the word “No” isn’t the end? What if it’s actually the universe pushing you toward something even better?

This is the idea behind the phrase: “Rejection is redirection”.

It’s easy to block ourselves from other possibilities and rely on our checkboxes — internships, GPAs, friend groups and résumé success — as if they define the life we’re supposed to lead. But it’s important to remember that not everything will go as planned, and that’s okay. Rejection often carries a negative connotation, yet we can reframe it as a reminder that everything happens for a reason and that our story is still unfolding, with each chapter building on the last.

Let’s reflect. Maybe the club you didn’t get to lead inspires you to start your own. Maybe missing out on a dream internship gives you the summer to discover a new passion or side hustle. Sometimes you don’t know until you try, and trying might lead you down an unexpected, incredible path.

Cause and effect come into play here. One rejection doesn’t erase your progress; it adds to it. Every “No” contributes to the chain reaction that eventually leads you to your “Yes.” The internship that didn’t call you back might be the gateway to a new, exciting opportunity. It’s all about perspective, and how you choose to view and respond to these moments shapes your character.

Everything happens for a reason, even when that reason isn’t immediately clear. College is the perfect time to experience rejection because it’s also a time to reinvent yourself. It’s a season of exploration, growth and endless possibilities. Every setback is another experiment in discovering who you’re meant to be.

So, the next time something doesn’t go your way, take a deep breath. Instead of spiraling, try to see how you can turn that rejection into a positive situation. Rejection doesn’t mean you’re not good enough; it means there’s something better waiting, something tailored to who you are becoming.

Keep taking risks and saying yes to new experiences, because one day you might look back and tell yourself, “Wow, that ‘no’ was the best thing that ever happened to me.”

Rejection isn’t a stop sign; it’s a detour that leads somewhere even better. To win the game of life, one has to keep playing.