4- Challenges

Last month I was challenged when I applied into the dental hygiene program at NAU. Getting into this program and getting a Bachelors in Dental Hygiene was my plan since high school. I had turned in my application in January and constantly prepared for the interview, but when I went into the interview the faculty notified me that there was not an interview spot available for me because I did not rsvp to the invitation they had emailed. I was devastated; this was what I was working towards for 2 years but I was shut down just like that. On my way home, my mind was going crazy, "What now Julia? What are you going to do now?" I thought to myself. This challenge pushed me to work harder than before, I met with my advisor only to find out that I have enough credits to graduate a year early, and earn a minor! At the time, being denied for the dental hygiene program felt like the end of my college career, but it turned out that it was not the path I was suppose to take. My behavior changed to see the good in every situation and to keep my head up because I know better opportunities will come my way.

From this experience I have learned that planning things too strictly and not giving myself room for change will not ensure that those plans happen. Life is unpredictable. I will use this example when a mentee is struggling with feeling like their plans aren't working out, because I can relate to that feeling. I will advise them to look at all their options and grab every opportunity that comes their way because plans are always changing. I think the mentee will appreciate my story because they will feel less stressed about their situation, they will understand that things will fall into place as long as they are committed and put in the effort.