Title: Dear Younger Me-A Letter to Myself Pre-Grad School
Author: Laila Salameh
MBKU School of PA Studies
Dear Younger Me,
I see you sitting there, hunched over a desk covered in grad school brochures, half-finished personal statements, and an overwhelming to-do list. You’re stressed, second-guessing every decision, and wondering if you’re good enough to chase the dreams you’ve set your heart on. I know it feels like the weight of the world is pressing down on your shoulders right now. But let me remind you of something you might not believe yet: You’re stronger, more capable, and more resilient than you think. Take a deep breath. I’ve got a few things I wish I could tell you.
First, stop comparing yourself to everyone around you. I know it’s hard when that one classmate has the perfect GPA or someone else seems to have their life completely figured out. But here’s the truth: comparison steals your joy and your confidence. Focus on you—on what makes you unique, on the strengths and qualities that make you stand out. You’re not just a collection of grades or accomplishments. You’re someone with compassion, grit, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Grad schools? They’re not looking for perfection. They want people who are willing to work hard, who can adapt, and who care about making an impact. And that’s you.
I know there are days when you wonder if all this effort is even worth it. The late nights, the sacrifices, the constant voice in your head whispering that you’re not enough—it’s exhausting. But I promise you, it is worth it. Success doesn’t mean never stumbling. It’s about getting back up, again and again. Persistence isn’t just a buzzword in motivational speeches—it’s real, and it works. If a door closes, knock on another. If no one answers, build your own. Keep showing up. Keep working hard. And most importantly, keep believing in yourself. The road might not look like what you imagined, but every step you’re taking now is going to get you somewhere incredible.
When the deadlines feel crushing and the pressure feels unbearable, remember this: you’ve faced tough moments before, and you’ve always come out stronger. You will this time, too. Break those big, scary goals into smaller steps. Tackle one thing at a time. Even the tiniest step forward is still progress, and trust me, all those little steps will add up in ways you can’t even see right now.
If I could give you one thing, it would be the ability to see yourself the way others see you. You are capable. You are deserving. You belong in those programs you’re applying to. Confidence isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about trusting that you can figure it out as you go. And let me tell you, you’re going to surprise yourself with just how much you can handle when you trust in your own abilities.
And please, hold onto hope. I know it feels so far away sometimes, but your future is brighter than you can even imagine. The rejection letters? They won’t matter in a few years. The nights spent overthinking every detail? They’ll be a distant memory. What will matter is the person you become through all of this—the perseverance, the lessons, the growth. Hope will carry you through the toughest days. Hold onto it tightly, because it will remind you that there’s light at the end of this tunnel—and it’s worth every bit of effort you’re putting in now.
You’re going to make it. You’re going to achieve things you haven’t even dreamt of yet. The road ahead won’t be easy, but it’s going to shape you into someone even more amazing than you are right now. So, keep pushing forward, keep striving, and above all, keep believing in yourself.
You’ve got this.
With all the love and faith in the world,
Future You