"My first degree came years before my second. I had wanted to be a physicist, but I flunked calculus"

In this quote by Elizabeth Moon, the speaker assesses their scholastic journey, highlighting both goals and difficulties dealt with along the way. The mention of "My first degree came years before my 2nd" suggests a prolonged instructional path, possibly marked by shifts in scholastic focus or substantial life occasions that caused a gap between obtaining degrees. This suggests strength and a continuing pursuit of education regardless of difficulties.

The speaker exposes a preliminary ambition to become a physicist-- a career course that generally requires strong proficiency in mathematics, especially calculus. The phrase "I had wanted to be a physicist, but I flunked calculus" underscores a pivotal challenge that prevented the speaker's original strategies. Failing a vital subject like calculus may have been both an individual and academic setback, as it is often a foundational topic required for progressing in physics and associated fields.

This reflection can resonate with readers knowledgeable about the battles encountered in academic environments. It talks to common experiences of goals meeting realities, where preliminary dreams might not always unfold as prepared due to unforeseen barriers. Nevertheless, the speaker's continuation of education, recommended by acquiring a "2nd" degree, indicate flexibility and determination. It recommends that although the speaker could not follow the path at first envisioned, they found alternative routes to continue growing and learning.

Furthermore, the quote invites wider reflection on the nature of success and failure in academic community. It suggests that problems, such as failing a crucial course, do not specify one's entire academic or professional journey. Instead, they offer opportunities for reevaluation of objectives and might eventually lead to varied and rewarding pathways. Elizabeth Moon's words motivate perseverance, as each step, whether direct or circuitous, contributes to the person's ongoing development and understanding.