Meet the 2023 Scholars

"Write a letter to your younger self during a key moment in your life addressing one or more of the following: words of encouragement, lessons you have learned and/or challenges you have overcome."

Dear Sarah, I know you're figuring out your path right now and the first thing I want to tell you is that's okay. Most people don't know what they want to do with their life when they're 18, and you aren't expected to be the magical exception. Your education, health, career, and life will continue to have ups and downs, and that's just part of the growing up process. I also want to say that I am so proud of you for shooting for your dreams, and I'm even more proud of you for deciding you wanted something different. The world of performing can be fun and beautiful, but it can also be dangerous and unfair. There is no shame in admitting you've changed, and that you no longer want what you did 5 years ago. You're not a quitter for changing your mind, you're just human. Yes, you're flawed, you struggle, you cry at times, and you stumble. But you also get back up and persist because that's part of the deal. I know you haven't figured what you want yet, but know that the first step is recognizing what you don't want, and you've gotten that far. You're living in Mom's basement right now at 23 and wondering where it all went wrong. Well, I'm here to tell you it didn't go wrong, it just wasn't what you thought would happen and might not be exactly what you wanted either. We all get down on our luck sometimes, and I want you to know that nobody is judging you for it. Your family loves you, your friends care about you, and this is only temporary. You've just started a really strange, new job in orthopedics and while you may be clueless, just try to roll with the punches. I want you to learn as much as you can from the providers you work under and I want you to really try your hardest at learning these new skills, especially casting. You know how your CF team was always there for you growing up? It's your turn to be there for others. Don't underestimate the impact you have on these people's lives, you can really make a difference for them. Also, I'd really love if you weren't so hard on yourself. I know you want to be the absolute best at everything you do! While that's admirable, you're only human and you still deserve to be happy. You don't have to push to always be exceptional, I promise nobody will think less of you for taking care of yourself. I think it's amazing that you're starting this new chapter in life and it's going to open lots of doors that you probably never knew were there. Keep your curiosity strong, your mind open, and never listen to the voice that says you can't do it. Believe me, I know you can do whatever you set your mind to, so make sure it's something that matters. Love, Future Sarah