a) I think there are plenty of hints at ADHD in your post. That doesn’t make you dumb, it just means your brain is wired differently that most people expect.
b) Dropped out of my classes half way through my 1st semester for computer science. A few years later, I got an associate’s degree in “New Media Production” or something. Building websites. Hated working with a client for my final project. Went BACK to my original school for a few more semesters. Still never completed my bachelor’s.
I’ve been with the same company now for 20 years in a slew of roles that have led to me being a Salesforce Administrator. For me it’s been about wanting to know more stuff, working hard, and taking opportunities as they come along. I’m not career driven, but hell if I’m not going to apply for positions that I know I can do and will make me more money.
Now I have a kid who is 19 (with ADHD) who just finished her first year of part-time community college and definitely didn’t pass all her classes. She’s moving to Florida soon to work in the Disney College Program. I wish she put more focus on school, but I suppose that’s how my parents felt too. She’s smart and a hard worker, and I’m sure she’ll figure it out eventually.
Not to get too Matt Damon or anything, but I’m an unapologetic Weezer fan. And I’ll say that I think they released their strongest album after Blue 20 years into their career with Everything Will be Alright in the End.
As a 50 year old, Pinkerton has become so cringy and uncomfortable to listen to. I won’t say it isn’t still a great album, but ugh.