Purpose Over Pressure — How A Clemson Senior Found Her Why

💫 Episode Summary

In this week’s inspiring episode, host Christine Hummel sits down with Elle Thomas, a 20-year-old senior at Clemson University studying Biomedical Engineering. Elle’s story is a masterclass in courage, pivoting, and finding purpose — from graduating high school early to changing her entire career path after a powerful personal experience.

What happens when the “plan” no longer lights your fire?
Elle shares how she went from chasing law school dreams to preparing for the MCAT and pursuing medicine — and why listening to your gut is sometimes the bravest move of all.

This episode reminds every woman — from high schoolers to executives — that confidence isn’t built overnight. It’s built through small acts of courage, daily self-talk, and the grace to start over.

🔑 What You’ll Hear

• Finding Purpose: Why Elle chose engineering without wanting to be an engineer — and how that decision gave her freedom.
• The Pivot Moment: The emotional family event that changed her entire direction and inspired her move toward medicine.
• Pushing Through Pushback: How Elle navigates the comments and doubts that women in STEM — especially aspiring doctors — still hear today.
• Confidence 101: Elle’s unique take on self-talk, being your own best friend, and the power of saying yes to opportunities.
• Reputation + Brand: Christine and Elle unpack how your “personal brand” starts in high school — and how every interaction builds (or breaks) it.
• Female Support vs. Competition: A candid conversation on why women must champion each other instead of compete.
• Purpose > Perfection: The simple mindset shift that keeps Elle grounded while balancing pressure, expectations, and future goals.

💬 Memorable Quotes

“If I can make even one person feel the gratitude I felt for my family’s doctor — that’s the kind of career I want.” — Elle Thomas

“No one thinks about you as much as you think about you. So stop holding yourself back.” — Elle Thomas

“We’re all writing our own definition of success. There isn’t one version — and that’s the beauty of it.” — Christine Hummel

🌱 Christine’s Takeaway

“Elle reminds us that purpose isn’t something you stumble into — it’s something you build through curiosity, courage, and consistency. Whether you’re 20 or 60, there’s no ‘too late’ or ‘too early’ to start following what fuels you.”

📚 Episode Resources

• Follow Root to Rising on Instagram for daily inspiration.
• Connect with host Christine Hummel on LinkedIn.

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