One of the biggest decisions that I had to make was taking a break from college. Our family was going through a big financial crisis at that time. I wanted to help by finding a job, but I knew the consequences of leaving college. I have heard several times that it's difficult to get back, and I might fall in love with the working world, where I earn money instead of relying on my parents.

Eventually, I decided to take a break from studying. Our family's need was too big for me to ignore. I have been out of college since 2007, and working for more than two years already. What people told me was true -- it's difficult to leave studying behind, but also difficult to get back. I have seen a lot of people who have the same case as me, and most of them already enjoy the benefits of earning their own money. I am different, though. Right now, there is nothing I want more than to go back to studying. My family's situation is better now, and in April I will start processing my enrollment papers again.

I picked this as one of the biggest decisions that I had to make because it was a choice between myself and my family's needs. All my life, my family had provided for all the things that I needed and wanted. The decision I made has its pro's and con's. I could have graduated from college at this time if I didn't take a break, but then who knows what our family's situation could be right now, if I didn't do my duty to help as part of the family. I have learned a lot of lessons while on 'detour', though. Working for companies changed some of my negative attitudes like being slow (I can't be late everyday, or else I'll get fired), not speaking up (no one will do things for me in the 'real' world), my lack of initiative (I have to think for myself and act on it, or else I'll be left behind), and being irresponsible (we are accountable for things entrusted to us, including the money that we earn). I also met wonderful people that I probably wouldn't know if I didn't make this decision.

The decision and outcome were both difficult, but the experience is worth it. =)