Lights, Camera, Wisdom: 7 Quotes from Film & TV To Inspire You

As you navigate through your college career, guidance and inspiration can come from unexpected sources, including film and TV shows. From timeless wisdom to humorous quips, these seven quotes offer valuable advice to help you succeed and thrive in college. Each quote carries a unique message that resonates with different aspects of student life, providing tips and tricks to keep in mind as you embark on your academic journey.

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  1. Mufasa, “The Lion King”

Honorable Mention: “The only thing standing between you and your goal is the story you keep telling yourself as to why you can’t achieve it.” – Jordan Belfort, “The Wolf of Wall Street”

The quote advises students to trust their abilities and persevere, as self-confidence and determination can influence how others perceive them. By believing in themselves and consistently demonstrating dedication and competence in their academic and personal pursuits, students can inspire others to recognize and believe in their capabilities. This fosters a positive environment where their potential is fully acknowledged and valued. Confidence is key even if it’s a fake-it-until-you-make-it type of scenario. Imposter syndrome is a genuine phenomenon that individuals are not alone, but must overcome.

  1. Heath Ledger, “10 Things I Hate About You”

Other people’s opinions should not be the deciding factor in determining what you want in life. Don’t allow yourself to be easily swayed or dictated to about what you can or cannot achieve, as this is your own story and your life to live. In today’s world, it’s tempting for students to accept any opportunity that comes their way, but it’s important to know your worth. Don’t sell yourself short or allow yourself to be pigeonholed into only doing grunt work after gaining experience.

  1. Michael Scott, “The Office”

Honorable Mention: “Success doesn’t come for free. You have to do whatever it takes to seize your moment.” – Ernesto De La Cruz, Coco

This emphasizes the importance of taking risks and seizing opportunities. By not trying, you automatically guarantee failure, whereas attempting something, even if it seems uncertain, at least offers the possibility of success. Trying new things pushes you out of your comfort zone, which is essential for personal growth and discovering new passions. Being curious opens you up to unexpected opportunities and experiences, especially when you’re unsure about your career path. Exploring different interests through clubs and organizations on campus not only helps you discover what you enjoy but also allows you to meet new people and expand your network, further enriching your college experience

Visit here for a list of all clubs on campus.

  1. Pooh, Winnie the Pooh

Life is about embracing the experiences and lessons along the way, rather than constantly seeking solutions to perceived problems. In the context of college, it’s important to recognize that failure is a natural part of the learning process. College is a time to navigate through challenges, try new things, and discover what works and what doesn’t. It’s okay to stumble and make mistakes because they provide valuable lessons for growth. Additionally, it’s essential to strike a balance between hard work and enjoyment. Taking time to unwind, whether it’s through studying abroad, attending campus events, or simply relaxing with friends, is vital for maintaining mental well-being and fostering a healthy work-life balance. Embracing the “work hard and play hard” mentality allows for both personal and academic success while ensuring that college is a fulfilling and enriching experience.

Click on the following links for the study abroad website and the campus activities: 

https://abroad.binghamton.edu/

https://www.binghamton.edu/campus-activities/events/index.html (or follow B-engaged for daily updates)

  1. “The Wizard of Oz”

Honorable Mention: “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” – Unknown, “How I Met Your Mother”

The quote underscores the significance of relationships and connections in life’s journey. In college, networking and forming meaningful connections are crucial. The individuals you meet—whether classmates, professors, or mentors—can play pivotal roles in your future endeavors. Your peers may become colleagues, collaborators, or even employers in the professional world. Professors offer valuable insights and guidance, drawing from their own experiences to provide mentorship and support. It’s essential to leverage resources like academic advising services and career centers, such as Binghamton’s Fleishman Center, to maximize opportunities for personal and professional growth. By nurturing relationships and seeking guidance from mentors, you can cultivate a network that enriches your college experience and opens doors to future success. Note: Make sure to update your LinkedIn profile!

Visit here to learn more about Fleishman Center: https://careertools.binghamton.edu/ 

  1. Mr.Krabs, “Spongebob Squarepants”

Honorable Mention: “Opportunities come infrequently. When it rains gold, put out the bucket, not the thimble.” – Warren Buffett

Mr. Krabs’ quote may be an extreme example of a money-hungry mindset but it is only to show that, money can be made more smartly. It is so easy to spend money like it’s water at college but now is the time to learn to be financially smart and start budgeting. As Warren Buffet advises, invest and earn more money. This can be moving your money into a high-yield savings account, or learning to invest in stocks. Check out the Financial Literacy for Youth club that has workshops on anything money talk. You can also book an appointment on Handshake under Visions Financial Wellness to discuss a variety of personal finance topics such as budgeting, credit scores, negotiating a job offer, student loans, and more 

Visit Handshake here: https://binghamton.joinhandshake.com/ 

  1. Dr. Miranda Bailey, “Grey’s Anatomy”

Honorable Mention: “There’s nothing wrong with a little self-indulgence every now and then.” – Blair Waldorf, “Gossip Girl”

This highlights the importance of self-care as a foundation for supporting others. In college, where there’s often a strong emphasis on helping peers and contributing to the community, it’s crucial to remember that your well-being matters too. While it’s admirable to assist others, neglecting your own needs can lead to burnout and hinder your ability to effectively support others. As Blair Waldorf suggests, it’s okay to indulge in self-care and reward yourself moderately. Taking time to rest, recharge, and engage in activities that bring you joy not only enhances your overall well-being but also enables you to better serve and support those around you. 

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In the whirlwind of college life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or uncertain about the path ahead. However, the wisdom embedded in these quotes from film and TV shows serves as a guiding light, offering insights and encouragement to navigate challenges, embrace opportunities, and prioritize self-care. By keeping these tips and tricks in mind, you can approach your college career with confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose, ready to overcome obstacles and make the most of your educational experience. 

By Samantha Weng
Samantha Weng