Cheers to Year One
Think Big
If someone had told 18-year-old me that I would be writing about my first-year experience as a doctoral student today, she would not have believed you.
Last year, on a whim, my twin sister said, "Let's get our doctorate." I responded, "Yeah… in a few years." To which she replied, "No! Like now!" I eventually obliged. We applied in February and hoped for the best, understanding that the program of interest is very competitive. A few months passed, and we were both accepted in April. Excited and terrified simultaneously, I looked forward to the new beginning. The week we learned about our acceptance, we resigned from our director position with plans to go part-time in 2024. The goal was to take full advantage of the college experience and everything the program offered while still committing to working in our home city and providing mental healthcare to the most vulnerable populations.
Unbeknownst to us, in November of 2023, our department abruptly closed down, and we were both laid off. It was so sudden that we did not get to say goodbye to our clients. That was the hardest part. Like many healthcare professionals, we worked during the pandemic. Some clients came into our lives at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic and stayed under our care. I can only imagine that our unanticipated departure left our clients confused and upset. My only hope is that each and every soul that came into my life during that time is well and aware of how special they are.
Despite the above, being laid off was an unfortunate event that turned out to be a divine intervention. Being laid off pushed my twin sister and me into full-time entrepreneurship as private practice providers and masters of our time.
Was it scary? Yes. Was it necessary? Heck yes! Sometimes, when doors out of your control are closed, it is merely redirection to open pathways to endless possibilities.
What I've Been Up To
This past school year has been a wild ride with moments of highs and lows. But lets start with a fun fact: I am a first-generation college student and the first person in my immediate family to graduate with a college degree. Despite having 4 degrees currently, I find that stepping into new academic spaces as a "first" is anxiety-provoking. So, had you told me that I would publish twice in my first year, become Vice President of a student organization, be a part of two research teams, obtain IRB approval for my own original research project, and satisfy one of my graduation requirements way in advance, I would look at you like you had 5 heads! These accomplishments were no small feat. I did it all while maintaining academic excellence, mentoring MSW students, supervising future clinicians, managing my private practice, providing exceptional care to my clients, experiencing the loss of my oldest child (a tabby-bengal named Cheetah), and taking care of my youngest child (a little Chihuahua named Bambi).
It's giving 4+4. Ate.
Thank You
During my first year as a doctoral student, I met the most wonderful people and created meaningful relationships that will last a lifetime. I've has a blast this past year but it took a village. So, I'd like to take a moment to show gratitude.
Thank you to the enrollment counselor who said my twin sister, and I would be a good fit for the program.
Thank you to the DSW ambassador who gave me pointers on managing my week as a doctoral student.
Thank you to my cohort, who are uniquely positioned to do the necessary work that we do and who made me laugh during trying times.
Thank you to my research advisor, who thought I was brilliant and agreed to work with me and my mad scientist ideas.
Thank you to my research teams and partners, who are all wise and motivated to do important work together.
Thank you to my student organization and affinity group, something I did not know I needed but found solace within.
Thank you to my first-year professors; your invaluable experience and wisdom have molded me and increased my intellectual capabilities.
& I am incredibly grateful for…
God… what up, triple OG!? You always look out. What a blessing it is to call you a friend. I am forever indebted. Thank you.
My mother… you've been a constant support. You're patient with me even when my emotions get the best of me. You're truly an angel in disguise. Thank you.
My sisters and family… "These two writs of mine, I had to make them gold. You gotta let me shine..."* Despite my chaotic ways, you all always support me and let me shine. Thank you.
My friends, " If you're a friend of mine, ask any friend of mine; I'll never block your glow, won't curb your high."* It is a blessing to have friends who glow and allow me to do the same. Thank you.
My therapist… you always listen. You always provide me with the space to be my authentic, unapologetic self, and your encouragement has been invaluable throughout this process. Thank you.
And to anyone who has written a recommendation letter, sent emails, vouched for my name and character, or encouraged me with something as simple as a smile, thank you.
I have grown in ways that I did not know were possible, and I've grown because of all of you.
Onward to Year Two
So, what's the lesson to learn from all of this? Closed doors are not happenstance. Sometimes, our plans for ourselves harm our overall well-being and deter us from our purpose.
So when redirection happens, ride the wave and enjoy the view. You may end up in a place that is beyond your wildest dreams.
Getting that degree, writing a book, creating content, or starting a business? Have at it. If you're aligned spiritually, it will all work out. As for me, I say cheers to year one and onward!
Until later, peace and hair grease ✌
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| NOLA Summer Residency 2024 |
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