<p>hey soon to be aroundthecorner, PhD…</p>
<p>I do remember your original letter (gosh how time does fly) I am a firm believer that your gift will make room for you.</p>
<p>Thank you for demonstrating this fact for those who have doubts.</p>
<p>Wishing you all the best in grad school</p>
<p>Also dating myself here because I too remember your post and cheering for you then and now. My own D also rejected higher rank schools (and better financial aid) for a program she wanted (yes we agreed to let her go, she was adamant-we were too tired to argue). She didn’t wind up in the original program she thought she wanted,-- changed course,-- but I have to admit she landed where she was meant to be…and the mentoring she received at ‘lower rank school’ was beyond our expectations…so much so that it netted her 8 grad school acceptances, including tippety top programs and some of her research work now being tested at the NIH. Parents of these fiercely independent free spirits–my theory is that if they have enough confidence, esteem and fortitude to dare to be different—they also have the ability to handle the consequences, difficulties and rewards of plotting their own courses. Moral of the story as aroundthecorner clearly demonstrates…follow your instincts, you end up where you want/need to be. Best wishes on your PhD work…and the ultimate goal: tenure!</p>
<p>Thanks for the update! Both my kids have followed somewhat unusual paths to get where they are but both are doing much better than projected, as you are. Glad that you and they are finding company and getting some of the support you so well deserve.</p>
<p>I wasn’t around for the original letter, but since I was the black sheep in my family, I am so happy for you.</p>
<p>I just returned from visiting my mom (now 80) in the hospital. It’s funny how things have changed. My parents rely on ME not my brother for everything. I was out of state when mom was admitted, and even tho brother was in town dad called me to talk to doctor, ask questions, etc. I will say, however, that my mom still mentions how I was a difficult child!</p>
<p>I say those of us who were black sheep often turn out to be the most sensitive, caring adults.</p>
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<p>Thanks for the reminder! You would think having been one myself, I wouldn’t need one, but sometimes the parental blinders get a little too big. Good for you for staying true to yourself! (And don’t wait for tenure to bring back the pink hair.)</p>