Minor spoilers from “Never Have I Ever” ahead!
Since Never Have I Ever’s release in 2020, Devi Vishwakumar (Maitreyi Ramakrishnan) has been treating us to a rollercoaster of emotions as she embarks through the ups and downs of her teenage years. In the first season, we witnessed her date two guys at the same time, get called to the principal’s office, deal with misunderstandings with the only other Indian girl in her class and spy on her mom’s date. Messy, we know. But she delivered many love and life lessons despite all the chaos. To recall from seasons two and three, she dealt with internet trolls, frenemies and love triangles—all of which have taught us a thing or two about handling truths and lies.
Here are a few lessons and tips from watching Never Have I Ever season four that may also help you.
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Own up to your mistakes
It is normal for us to make a mess, especially during our formative years. After all, it is the stage where we should learn a couple of lessons. What’s important is to also learn the art of forgiveness. It may be challenging to go out there and approach the person you hurt, but difficult doesn’t always mean the end of it. Apologizing can definitely bring you a sense of relief.
If you are an avid watcher of the series, it’s no surprise that Devi has quite a temper and tends to pick fights when angry. Unfortunately, in season four, this has yet to change. She finds herself in a mess yet again because of jealousy. But thankfully, after a consultation with her psychiatrist Dr. Jamie Ryan (Niecy Nash), Devi starts to admit and own up to her mistakes—which leads us to our next point.
It’s completely alright to seek help
In life, you expect heartbreaks and disappointments, which may cause breakdowns and loss. With this, an important thing to remember is that you are never alone. Mental health is as important as physical health. There’s no problem with seeking professional help in improving your emotional or mental state, the same way we seek medical aid for our bodies.
In this part of our lives, we have to find a safe place in one’s company. As for Devi, she has her friends Eleanor (Ramona Young) and Fabiola (Lee Rodriguez) and Dr. Ryan for support. Just like her, it’s completely okay to ask for help from whomever you feel comfortable talking to. You never know! You might get that much-needed push or healing from them.
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There are different ways to get into your dream university!
While some believe their life journeys don’t include college, many still want to a degree from their dream universities—but we all know that it's no easy feat to get admitted. Different programs require various skills that aren't always measured through entrance exams. You have more methods to show these schools what you have got!
Admission success is not always guaranteed, the way Devi had her early trial with Princeton University. Nevertheless, failure is not the end. Exams aren’t the only way to get in! Some universities accept appeals for reconsideration. Arts and sports-related programs often refer to talent tests as grounds for admission. And if these don’t work, take it as a sign. Your non-admission to your first choice may be the universe’s way of leading you to where you should be.
Don’t be in a hurry, and don’t pressure yourself
If you ever find yourself pressured to achieve a certain thing at your age, remember what Eleanor told Trent (Benjamin Norris) when he had to make a mature decision while in still high school: “We’re still kids. We can’t make that kind of major life decision.” This is one of the best lines the actress-wannabe has ever said in the series. Here, she talks about taking things slowly. When you do, you might find the best path for you, like Paxton (Darren Barnet) did when he realized his passion for teaching.
Understandably, reaching an achievement early on feels good. But pacing can help you in the long run when you have a goal. You might have a clearer vision if you give yourself space and time to breathe. Do yourself a favor and be calm–you will get there!
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These are just a few lessons that Devi and her friends have taught me in the fourth season of Never Have I Ever. If you want to learn more, the series’ latest season is now streaming!
Don’t miss the series finale exclusively available on Netflix.
Words Zhanele Africano
Art Matthew Ian Fetalver
