Embracing opportunity

I came to the SEP program with one goal in mind: “Opportunity”.

The opportunity in which this program can offer the young minds of future health professionals is truly remarkable. We moved into Horton Hall on Saturday, May 17th 2008 and shortly after that, we had orientation. As I sat through the orientation, I began to think about being considered one of the “chosen few”.

As I listened to both Ms. Benton and Ms. Borden, I began to think about the next 8 weeks. Sure, I could spend my summer relaxing, watching television or even working a part time job, but to me, that would not be the “opportunity” that I am so thankfully embracing right now. I just don't feel that I would have been utilizing the best that I have to offer.

In today's world, you have to be resourceful, and sitting around at home is not the best use of my time nor my talents. This is an OPPORTUNITY, I can't stress that enough. It is something that many applied for, yet only a FEW were admitted. To me, that speaks volumes.

Overall, I felt that the first day was very informative. There was a lot of information thrown at us, and much of it I did not know. I sat in orientation getting more and more excited as the day went by. I knew that there would be plenty of work, and was even warned that this would be a true “summer to remember”.

Despite all of that, I, along with the other scholars, feel that we are very capable and ready to embrace this journey.

The first day of class was interesting. I have NEVER had organic chemistry in my life, so everything that we were taught Monday was new to me. I went into the class with an open mind, but as the class went on, I became slightly overwhelmed. I think the best thing about this program is that we really are a family. Unlike our individual universities where students may feel the need to compete, the SEP Program embodies a solid family foundation of both friendly and like-minded students who are willing to help each other. I have found students over the last couple of days who have tutored me in both Organic and Physics (the two classes that I have never taken before).

This is such a remarkable experience for anyone who is granted this opportunity. The administration and faculty are very approachable and truly have an invested interest in the future and success of the participants.