"我从未让上学干扰我的教育。"

The quote is all about the difference between formal education and real learning. It means that while going to school and getting formal qualifications are important, they should never stop you from learning from life itself. Real education comes from experiences, interactions, and curiosity about the world.

Mark Twain, the guy behind this gem, was known for his wit and way with words. He lived in the 19th century when formal education wasn't as accessible or standardized as it is today. Twain had a few years of formal schooling but was largely self-taught. His life was filled with diverse experiences—he worked as a riverboat pilot, a miner, and a journalist before becoming a famous writer. So, when he said he didn't let his schooling interfere with his education, it was because his real learning came from these rich, varied experiences rather than just textbooks or classrooms.

Let's look at a real-life example that drives this home. Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, is a perfect illustration. He attended Reed College but dropped out after just six months. Jobs didn't stop learning after he left college; he continued to take classes that interested him—like a calligraphy course that would later inspire the beautiful typography that Apple computers are known for. His "education" was driven by curiosity and a desire to understand things deeply, not just to pass exams or get a degree.

Now, how can we apply this in our own lives? Start by pursuing interests and curiosities outside the classroom or your job. Don't just stick to the curriculum or what’s required. If something piques your interest, dive into it. Read books, watch documentaries, take online courses, or even travel if you can. The internet has made it easier than ever to learn about virtually anything. Join clubs, participate in discussions, and surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you. Your education should be an ongoing, lifelong journey, not just a phase you go through in your youth.

Imagine you're in high school and you're into robotics. Your school might have a robotics class, but don't just stop there. Join a local robotics club, participate in competitions, or even build your own robots at home. You might struggle and fail a few times, but those failures will teach you more than a textbook ever could. This hands-on experience could lead you to a future career you’re passionate about, or at the very least, deepen your understanding and enjoyment of the subject.

Take my friend Tom, for instance. He was an average student, nothing spectacular in his school reports. But he was obsessed with photography. He'd spend hours taking pictures, editing them, and reading about different techniques. Fast forward a few years, and Tom's not just making a living as a professional photographer—he’s winning awards and traveling the world, all because he didn’t let his formal schooling limit his real education.

So, think of education as more than just a classroom experience. It's about following your passions and curiosities wherever they lead. Take advantage of the resources around you, keep asking questions, and never stop learning. Schooling is just one part of the puzzle. The world is a big, fascinating place, and there's so much more to learn outside those classroom walls.