Life

There is no one to blame for my poor academic performance but myself. I entered Hampton University a studious and sheltered girl from California. Within weeks I became lethargic and self-conscious. Hampton was where I aspired to be since I took a campus visit in the 8th grade. I remember standing on the banks in front of Virginia Cleveland Hall telling my mother I had found my dream school. Entering for the fall semester was blissful and I expected everything to be perfect. I knew Hampton had a strenuous curriculum but I assumed I would be able to handle it effortlessly. I was rudely awakened as my course load got more impacted. I began to have anxiety and retreat. The more work I was assigned, the more I retreated. I began to feel inferior and incapable. Something I had yet to experience. Being 3,000 miles away from home made the experience more difficult. I wanted nothing more than to go home and I missed everything about my old life. I understand that I brought this problem on myself and I take full responsibility for not seeking help or even talking to some on about my feelings.

I was ecstatic to find out my financial aid had been reinstated for the fall semester. Over the summer I worked 2 jobs and took classes where I averaged a 3.4 grade point average. My summer showed my parents and I that I had reclaimed my work ethic and I was motivated to return in the fall and prove myself. The denial of my Parent Plus Loan was a major blow. My family was not able to make up the difference and I was forced to stay home. I am asking you for another chance. Staying home for the semester showed me just how important education is. I had a lot of time to reflect on my mistakes and it was a humbling experience. I know now without a doubt that I need to be at Hampton University.

If I am allowed to return in the spring I plan to make full use of the counseling center. If I begin to feel anxiety I will go seek out the proper help from a counselor. I know my...