The Tables Have Turned (Thanksgiving Edition)

Wow, I can't believe it's been six months! Time for me to write an update. Warning: long post!

Right before graduation, I submitted my first appeal. I received a letter after graduation stating that the disciplinary probation would be upheld, but there was no explanation. On the day of Commencement, I finally completed jury duty. At least I didn't have to worry about that for another four years.

Preparing my second appeal was such a lengthy process because this was my last chance. I reached out to whoever could assist me. At the end of June, the final appeal and all supporting documents were submitted. It was out of my hands, and I could only hope that these people reviewing my case would be moved when they read what I've had to say... and that they would make the right decision. 

After three long months, I received an e-mail with an attached letter. My heart was pounding as I opened the PDF file. I calmly read the entire letter and I reread it until it hit me... The appeal ended up in my favor! In middle of the night, I was screaming inwardly. No more waiting, no more wondering if the final appeal changed anything, no more worrying about explaining my academic record or even thinking about obtaining legal assistance! I didn't sleep much that night, but I finally had something to be ecstatic about this year. 

The executive committee didn't believe that an ethical violation was intentionally committed, so I'm allowed to attend the graduation ceremonies next May with a clean academic record, pending successful completion of all program requirements. My family, friends, everyone who spent their time assisting me, and even people who heard about my story were ecstatic when they heard the good news. I'm so grateful, and I really could have not have my good name restored without their support.

It took an entire summer to recover from all the hardships I endured this year. For the first time in my life, I was genuinely worried about the potential effects my academic situation could have on my future... I only had friends and family to fall back on. I even saw a therapist for a short time. Later on, I focused on training for Tough Mudder, which I successfully completed with my awesome teammates a month ago! 

I've learned a few things from all this: 1) Don't let personal matters, no matter how severe, interfere with professional life. 2) Double- or triple-check my work to make sure all my i's are dotted and my t's are crossed. 3) If I believe something is done unfairly, speak up and fight for myself! Also, I must say that this year showed me what I'm truly made of. I'm much stronger than I was a year ago, and I know I can overcome any obstacle that stands in my way.

Things are definitely looking up now... I've been quite busy, but I'm happy to finally have my life back. I started attending Church again (well, I'm trying to go more often). I participated in the Step Out Walk to Stop Diabetes, and volunteered in the post-Sandy cleanup at East River Park. I may volunteer at a soup kitchen sometime during the holidays. Last but not least, I just started tutoring and I love it.

Although I'm not registered for any courses this semester, I took an elective: New Perspectives in Marketing. During the Spring semester, I hope to complete an optional Pediatrics Level II fieldwork before I retake the course. I'm also interested in volunteering for Bottomless Closet to help women obtain employment. So much to do, so little time...

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! I have so much to be thankful for this year, and I hope you do as well! :)

Stuck Between a Rock and a Hard Place

Just a month before I expected to graduate this program, I was involved in a serious academic situation. It was an issue that could have been resolved between two parties. However, I was called in to the director's office, and it was determined that the disciplinary committee needed to be involved to determine my status as a student.

The program accused me of intentionally committing an ethical violation. I appeared at my disciplinary hearing to share my side of the story and answer questions. Ultimately, the committee sided with the program, ruling that I was guilty of violating several codes of ethics without any hard evidence. Thus, I was slapped with disciplinary probation, which would remain on my permanent record. Also, I was expected to redo a semester's worth of work in less than 24 hours I was notified of the disciplinary committee's decision.

Due to the enormous pressure I was under, I could not successfully complete everything and thus did not pass the course. On top of disciplinary probation, I was also placed on academic probation. I would be placed on leave for the Fall semester, since I would be expected to retake the course next Spring. I wasn't allowed to attend this year's or even next year's graduation ceremonies. Also, I couldn't complete my Level II Fieldwork at a VA hospital this summer.

Without a doubt, I had just experienced the worst two days of my life. No, I wasn't having a terrible nightmare. The reason why I decided to attend this program was because I believed that I would be learning in a supportive environment. However, I felt that this same program took advantage of my vulnerability to exercise its power. In an instant, so many things that I looked forward to this year were taken away from me.  

Right now, I'm in the process of writing my appeal. In my heart, I believe that they didn't understand my side of the story. Also, I strongly believe that the disciplinary action dealt out against me was excessive. They didn't have any hard evidence to back these accusations. Unfortunately, they placed the burden on me to prove my innocence.

On the bright side, I'm not alone and I have great help.  This month has been disastrous, but I'm trying to hang in there and fight. In this case, I'm David who's up against Goliath, a formidable opponent. I'm so grateful for the love and support from my family and friends. Otherwise, I would have given up... and lost.