“Just tell the truth,” I said. “Speak from your heart.”
“No Mom. I have to lie. I’m going to have to lie for the rest of my life.”
And my heart cracked, because there was truth in what he’d just said?
We were sitting at the kitchen counter. He was completing a scholarship application. I was there for moral support. We’d plopped this duty with a short reply time on the kid’s plate while he’s under pressure from several other projects.
The essay required him to enunciate his goals for college and career. He’s currently undeclared in the “major” department, although he’s leaning towards biology with chem and business minors. He wrote that. Also said he wants to maintain a 3.8 GPA. All of that is true.
Career? He doesn’t know. Ultimately he’d love to own a business in the fishing industry.
“That’s not what they want to hear Mom.”
And my heart cracked, because I believe there was truth in what he’d just said.
The company offering the scholarship is looking for STEM students–a medical company.
“They want doctors and researchers. I don’t have a career goal. My job is to do well in the classes I’m taking right now.”
Man, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
What do you think?
What chance at a scholarship would he have if he’d honestly said, "I don’t know."
With more time, could a creative response allow for complete honesty AND show his competency?
Unfortunately, we cannot manufacture time.
His honest reply was that his adviser is directing him toward classes that leave the door open for many career paths.
We’ll see what comes….
Have you heard about STEM becoming STEAM?
The A stands for Art…creativity.
Any thoughts?