Who is Accepted Society for?
This is a post straight from the heart which I felt called to write after receiving a message last week that read:
“I didn't know that Accepted Society was for someone like me"
She is a mother of teenagers in her 40s looking to return to school and complete an undergraduate degree. She said “I don’t feel enough." That she wasn't sure how she would fit in at Accepted because it seems that the community is full of graduate students.
Here was my reply:
“Dear friend, I am so sorry you have been burdened by these feelings and doubts. Just know that Accepted is a community of non-traditional students and educators from all ages, disciplines, and educational backgrounds and we would welcome you with open arms.”
But it got me thinking: maybe we need to showcase more of what makes this community so special – our vibrant, diverse, charismatic, brilliant, and silly community members.
I will be keeping the names of the members anonymous for their privacy ❤️
L is a commercial construction worker who loves learning about and researching the Salem Witch Trials. She lives alone with her gorgeous pup, has begun preparing an article for conference submissions and as she says: “I’m a walking talking cliche of Morgan from Good Will Hunting and I’m only mildly ashamed about it.”
G dropped out of a PhD program in her 20s and has, for decades, considered returning. However, after years of doubt and uncertainty she needed a little extra encouragement and support to see her dream of becoming a doctor come true. After joining AS, she has begun reapplying for a masters degree with the Department of Continuing Education at Oxford, proving it is NEVER TOO LATE to return to education.
S has re-enrolled in high school courses in preparation to re-apply to university after a few years of health complications and uncertainty. Attending daily study sessions and making friends within AS has offered the consistency and support they were seeking and they make progress towards their goal each day.
K joined AS as an independent researcher with the dream of one day completing a PhD. She used the study sessions and member meet ups to refine her articles and read in her subject until the time finally came. She put aside the doubt and uncertainty to apply to make her dream a reality. She is now writing her PhD dissertation, while in a funded program, and working alongside our PhDone coaches.
J is a full time nurse while juggling her studies. Working long days, she always shows up to the study sessions, planning workshops, and member socials with a smile on her face and words of encouragement for others. She, despite all that is on her plate, is on her way to PhDone.
