🙏🏾 I GOT ACCEPTED 🙏🏾

Guess What?......

Dear Imani,

Congratulations!

It is my pleasure to inform you that you have been selected for admission to the MA in Journalism and Public Affairs Broadcast Specialty program for the Summer 2022 term at American University's School of Communication (SOC).

Welcome to our community of Media Changemakers! Our faculty members are eager to challenge you academically and to help you meet your educational and professional goals. Your academic accomplishments and personal background make you an excellent match for our rigorous curriculum.

🙌🏾 🙌🏾 🙌🏾 🙌🏾

When I read those words in the late afternoon of Saturday December 17, 2021, I jumped for joy! My face was stuck into that smile for the rest of the night and then realization set in

which made me anxious. My smile eventually fell, and I became weary of getting accepted into the Journalism and Public Affairs Broadcast Specialty program at American University, also known as AU, because I started to worry. I kept asking myself in my head the whole night, how will I pay for the tuition at such a prestigious school?

I then talked to my father the day after I was accepted. The day of when I found out he was already excited, and he plays a major role in why I went to college and extended my education! When talking to him he reassured me that we will always find a way to pay for my tuition just as much as we did when I went to George Mason University. But, I still wasn’t thrilled because I already have student loan debt and I haven’t received a job as of yet where I make enough money and can be able to pay off my loans. To be honest, I understand that though I knew American University was going to be expensive regardless even if I am in state, I wasn’t exactly looking at expenses. I was paying attention to doing my research for universities that offers the greatest Journalism graduate programs with a concentration in broadcasting. Lucky enough I found it in Washington, DC at American University after an extensive amount of research. I attended virtual events, open house, and contacted the School of Communications department. Instead of focusing on an important aspect of attending school, which is money, I was focusing on another area that being curriculum. Of course, the academic standpoint is very much important, but paying to go to school is even more crucial.

When I talked to my mom who sacrificed a lot for me to be able to attend undergraduate school, she warned me. I really needed to hear it which is, “Don’t become too excited and receive disappointment at the end.” After she said those words, I was hesitant and almost set on declining the offer of admissions to American University. I know she means well and is always supportive of me attending and achieving my goals, but she is an honest person that knows me. When I can’t reach my set goals, I eventually go through anxiety and depression with feelings of failure and more. I know if I became excited about attending American University and I can’t attend I would be heartbroken and more. Seriously I was on the cusp of declining AU and continuing to work and save up until I could attend. However, I had a long and deep conversation with my father. He literally told me that money comes and goes, but if you want something take it right then and there because you might not receive a second chance. He made sure to explain to me that I will be able to go to AU even if it means working more hours. He wants me to succeed and live out my dreams! I almost cried because I knew both of my parents were telling the truth. I really want to attend American University and I knew my father will find a way, but like my mother said there is never a guarantee. She didn’t want to see me hurt and mentally affected, but she told me even if I couldn’t attend school at that moment cherish that fact that I was accepted into a top university. Even though it is a month later I still do worry and am not sure if I will attend AU, but my stance has changed.

I did listen to my father because my dad is my superhero and I know he will help and get things done. I decided to accept the offer from American University recently which is why I am telling you all now! I am currently applying for scholarships and saving up money from my part time job to pay for my tuition. In the back of my head, I keep telling myself that I won’t be able to attend, and it was dumb of me to take a spot someone else deserved. But, then on the other hand I keep telling myself even if I receive more student loans, which I am dreading 😫, it will pay off at the end. I am still honest with myself by telling myself if I can’t afford to attend this upcoming summer semester American University will still be here. I have

a lifetime to go to graduate school and with a bachelors I can still be successful until I fulfill my dream of earning my master’s in journalism!