Having been in school for my undergrad, I thought I had a pretty good idea of what the school environment was like from a student’s perspective. MSP blew that out of the water.
My first experience was at the Open House. I have worked in a paramilitary type of organization since my youth and feel very comfortable with rules and regulations. I came in early and sat down waiting for the program to begin. Little did I know; the program was dependent upon me to begin.
I found myself in good conversation with several of the faculty and current students. What I didn’t know is that this group of people would become my family.
Upon starting school, I came with my own preconceived notions of people and how they worked. I wasn’t prepared for the new information I would receive and the thoughts that would challenge my soul.
I believe in people helping people but MSP has taken my thoughts of community to another level. I find myself surrounded by people working to make me the best help I can be to a weary soul. The professors really care. They care about you, they care about each other, and they care about people whom they do not currently know.
I am in the Full-time MA program. I have seen approximately 30 patients to date. I have already been effectual in helping people who have fallen and just need a hand up. Don’t worry, I didn’t go in blind and neither will you. I have been well prepared and I have help when I need it.
Coming in, I wanted to change people’s lives. Now, I come alongside people and help to empower them to change their own lives. You know, to reach their full potential.
After all, isn’t that what everyone wants?
Patrick Whitney is currently in the MA program at MSP.
