Stress Center Peer Support

Recently I decided to return to university study to complete a masters degree. A lot of factors went into my decision to try to get accepted to this program and it has put me into touch with a lot of personal self-doubts, etc. Yet, I decided to do this and have felt such inner peace about it- like my little duckies got into a row for once.

To get into the program it requires letters of reference from people who could attest to my academic and personal strengths. I struggled who to ask and found myself inquiring with some people close to me. It's amazing how much resistance I've run into. One family member even broke down crying over it! So far I have only 2 people who would back me up and I need 2 more references but have run out of options. So now I'm desperate.

To say the least my self-doubts have returned and I'm ready to give up just because some people can't accept that I'm trying to better myself and one day work to help other people. Their view of me is at threat so they get negative and sour about it- just amazing. I realize they don't have a lot of faith in my dreams and their not backing me hurts. I feel resentment that I may not be able to move ahead just because someone else wants to choose what I will do with my life.

So I've reached a stalemate and time is almost run out to get my admission materials in on time. Any advice you might have is most appreciated.

Hey Spark,
I havent logged in here in a while and your post was the first one i see!! Anyway, congratulations on your goals and determination to "better" yourself. I think thats great. I guess my only concern and where I am wondering if you are encountering resistance is, will this be full time? Can you go at it part time while still contributing to the household income? I may be way off base, but thats the only problem I can see as to why someone might not be encouraging of this! I'm sure long term, this will be a positive and rewarding thing, for the now, it will mean a lot of hard work and expense, so some people might not understand or accept all that. Try to listen to their concerns and make an educated decision. i wish you the best of luck in all you do Mark. Hugs.

Hi Sparkus:
My inclination , after reading your post, is to say, don't give up!!! There has to be 2 more people who will back you up.
I know that families can be , to say the least, ODD.
Who knows what their reasons are!!?

I think you can do it!!!!
Don't let what others think curtail your dreams and ambitions.

How old are you? Can you go to some old teachers and ask for referals? There has to be someone.

Friends are often more to boost you up than family.
Anyway, I sure wish you lots of success!!
Keep believing in yourself.
Don't let what others say and intimate influence your confidence in yourself. Keep the faith!!
MaryJane