Read through and act on these steps very carefully. Be meticulous, succinct, and precise. If you are not dedicated, come back when you’re ready. Step 1: Reconnect with your old teachers- they are your biggest supporters! Mrs. Sheryl McLean-Houle is my #1 inspiration. She kept me alive in middle school. Literally. Use their connections to your advantage. Networking is one of the most important things you can do. If you need the connections I have, contact me at [email protected]. Read this inspiring conversation to see firsthand how we can help fulfill each other’s dreams. https://docs.google/document/d/1PvspKEoVQMR9XnYXH-czpQpDeMVhu8pJ5Jl9T61X5cM/edit?usp=sharing Step 2: Email the alumni who interviewed you for any college, only good things will come out of it. Use their connections and advice to your advantage. Networking is one of the most important things you can do. If you need the connections I have, contact me at [email protected]. Dear Afifa, First let me tell you that your letter was incredibly special to me. I truly enjoy the interviewing process but I do not often have follow-up on the students that I meet and get to know. I truly enjoyed speaking with you about your art, the Bridge program, your older brother and sister, as well as your life before coming here. I admire your grit, enthusiasm and commitment to succeed. There are quite a many famous people who look upon not getting into the college of their choice as one of the formative experiences of their lives. My daughter, Monica, is attending UConn med school and it was not her top choice at all. She is, however, grateful for the financial benefit and also, has been working even harder in school to be able to ultimately choose a more competitive residency program. (She is also surrounded by UConn graduates who have been accepted to the med school). So I know how disappointing this must have been for you. I was not aware of the major impact that the change in needs blind admission would have. And you were caught in that perfect storm. I know how unfair that must seem. I would also say, I chose my medical school (McGill in Montreal) in large part for financial reasons. Having little or no debt after college will make you incredibly free to choose the next stage of your life: education, job etc. In addition UConn has many "special" programs: foreign study, scholarships for summer experiences etc that are often underutilized and are financially favorable. Keep doing the research on these unique opportunities. (My sister, who graduated from UConn received a scholarship for a summer in Portugal, and others spent semesters in Europe and many other places). I know that you will apply yourself fully to your college experience. There are many honors programs as well as sororities and so many organizations to enjoy. You will also discover that the most talented students from all over decide on UConn for the strength of the programs as well as for financial concerns. I would love to see some pictures of your artwork as you continue to evolve, please send me some whenever you have a chance! I thank you again for writing such a heartfelt and painful letter. It speaks to your character that you are not bitter and resentful but that you are approaching this life lesson with resolve and determination. Unfortunately, of the students I interviewed, only one was accepted and another on the wait list. It is often the way, despite my strongest recommendations. Please stay strong and optimistic. I know you will thrive in college at UConn and will take advantage of all that it has to offer. One last suggestion: If you are interested in working in the mental health field, consider becoming an APRN specializing in mental health. The advantage of this over a straight psychology degree is the ability to do both counseling and to prescribe medications on your own. These is a huge need for improved mental health services in our country but a psychology degree or a social work degree only address the counseling and not the psychoactive medications that have become so effective in many patients. This field allows for either independent practice or to work in many types of health care facilities. Again, keep me apprised of your progress, I expect you will change a careers multiple times before you settle of what is best for you! Good luck and kind regards, Joan Draper MD Joanpdraper@gmail https://docs.google/document/d/1Pudob6vBoZg5zauUWMjpMRr_0h9TRfP9wXswaa2G_Qo/edit This is my exchange with Dr. Joan Draper, M.D, and Dartmouth graduate. I hope this inspires you to take on the world!
Posted on: Sat, 13 Jul 2013 12:03:03 +0000
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