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In my second semester of college, I had to make the decision to end life-support for my daughter. I had to watch her be taken away from me.
My university told me if I took a leave of absence, I would lose my full-ride scholarship, my only way to attend. I failed everything.
My university told me if I took a leave of absence, I would lose my full-ride scholarship, my only way to attend. I failed everything.
Over the next year, I received many nasty messages, calls, and verbal abuse from my peers, fellow students, and professors.
I was never referred to University Mental Health Services. Not once. As my mental health deteriorated, I eventually cycled into chronic PTSD that wasn't effectively treated until years later. I still relapse when put under enormous stress. #AcademicMentalHealth
My poor performance following my daughter's death and my mental breakdown have followed me well into my PhD. I was disqualified for many things early on due to my GPA despite my research, awards, and references. Those missed opportunities have led to a less packed CV now.
I have found no support, ever, in the Academic Institution. Not professionally. Not emotionally. Not in any way.
Mostly what I've found are cruel and heartless people, bent on taking any weakness and throwing it in your face to better their own careers. Competition at all cost.
Mostly what I've found are cruel and heartless people, bent on taking any weakness and throwing it in your face to better their own careers. Competition at all cost.
That's why I'm still here. I know I have students that are struggling. I know I have students whose mom just died. Who just lost their house. Who don't have food.
And you are going to tell them such terrible things. I know you will. Because you told them to me.
And you are going to tell them such terrible things. I know you will. Because you told them to me.
Kindness is not a personality trait, it is a choice.
A purposeful choice. One that you can make every day with each and every action. Be that kindness for your students and for everyone else that you meet.
A purposeful choice. One that you can make every day with each and every action. Be that kindness for your students and for everyone else that you meet.
