Jared's Dream By Donna J. Erickson

“That’s all I ever wanted to do. There’s nothing else for me.” Those are the words of my friend Lucinda’s son, Jared, who knew from a young age he wanted to become a doctor. Jared excelled in his high school studies and was accepted to a good college where he successfully completed a pre-med program. He knew exactly what he wanted to do with his life. What he didn’t know was just how difficult the following years would be.

After graduating from Brandeis University, Jared applied to some medical schools, but even though he had outstanding grades and enviable outside activities, he quickly learned how stiff the competition was. Few seats were available to the growing numbers of students applying for them. Year after year, he was met with disappointment and rejection.

As time continued to pass, Jared never gave up. He took the required medical exams over and over again trying to get higher scores. He explored the alternatives of medical schools abroad and consulted with academic professionals for advice. After learning that graduation from a medical school outside of the United States was viewed as being less credible than a domestic school (and usually considered as a last resort), he contemplated other options. Most recently, he had completed a masters degree program and graduated with a 4.0 to help spruce up his resume and improve his chances.

Throughout his long and laborious journey, I offered Jared my help. I had been writing resumes, application essays, bios, and personal statements for decades. I understood what Jared was facing and I believed in his goal, so I volunteered my assistance. I had created his original resume in high school, and I continued to update it, review and edit his bio information, and rewrite his essays.

I never thought about charging anything for my services. I wanted to do this. I wanted to be a part of Jared’s dream to become a doctor. I knew he would make a fine physician, and it bothered me that he kept getting refused. He was actually becoming depressed from the constant rejection. I knew I had to do whatever I could to help.

So many of today’s young people are struggling while aspiring to break into their careers. They face mounting expenses with college loans while having to survive the exorbitant cost of living in the city. For those of us who are established, we can offer our skills and expertise as a way to make their road to success a little easier. What comes easily to us can help take one less bit of added pressure off of them.

Last month, Jared received an unexpected phone call asking how he was doing. The voice on the other end said he should be doing great now that he’s been accepted to medical school. After four tumultuous years of banging on doors, Jared was finally welcomed to attend Tuft’s Medical School in Boston. I admire his will to persevere and how he never gave up on his lifelong ambition. Whatever small role I played, I’m glad to have been a part of it. The world will be a better place when Jared is practicing among our dedicated medical professionals.