Anonymous Letter #9 - Expectations

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Jan 8, 2026 Dear PenPal,  I’m a college student kinda scared about graduating soon. It’s been a long time coming, but it passed by so quickly—college was tough in multiple ways too.  I worked 20 hours a week during the semester, up to 80 hours a week in the summer to pay for college, and in my classes, pretty much everyone came from higher income backgrounds than me and were all valedictorians back in high school. I managed to get a 3.9 gpa and high MCAT score despite all that. But time passed by very quickly—there were a lot of nights I spent studying or working that I didn’t get to see friends or have fun, and I struggled a lot with romantic relationships because the men I dated wanted me to choose them over my career; sometimes they even tried to sabotage me.  I finally met a guy that gets it and supports my career; I felt so grateful that he took the time to cook for me just so I could focus better on my finals. In a sense there are parts of my life that are a blessing, but I’m scared too that I won’t be able to find a job and worried I might not get into medical school this cycle. That’s all of my ramblings for now.  -Love, Atsuko

Response type:

✓ Advice & Encouragement

✓ Perspective & Reflection

✓ Comfort & Validation 

Feb 5, 2026 Dear Atsuko, I see how hard you are trying. Your worries about graduating college is so valid; although I’m not in your exact situation, I have similar feelings about growing older and closer to large hurdles that might make-or-break goals. All those hours of work must feel exhausting sometimes, and I bet being surrounded by people who seem so far away from your situation or struggle to align with your priorities could feel isolating. I want to first say how amazing the work you are doing is. The work you put into continuous effort shows in your awesome GPA and MCAT score. That alone is such an amazing feat; the fact you are still going even if you are scared. I’m so proud of you!!! I’m also so happy for you that you have someone now who can support you without clashing with your priorities. Having a support system like that is so important! (The fact he makes yummy food for you is such an awesome bonus!) And also, it’s totally ok to be scared. Getting into medical school must seem intimidating, but you’ve worked your butt off your college years for it; whatever happens, I know you put your everything into this.  Just don’t forget to take the time for yourself too, work is important but resting is too. Sometimes letting yourself relax with people who care about you can be like a energy boost--woosh! You’re doing amazing work; I’m sure people around you can see that. I admire your grit to keep going and stay determined. I know you’ll do spectacular things, and I’m so excited for your future. Keep going Atsuko, I believe in you :D -GraySpace