F.I.N.A.O.

Failure Is Not An Option (FINAO) was introduced to my sophomore year of college when I attended a program hosted by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. I had been contemplating changing my major from pre-physical therapy to athletic training.  I thought about taking the easier route because I felt threatened pursuing a major where I had met no one that looked like me. I also met with my advisor that same week and she told me that physical therapy is a very competitive field and that I would have to raise my GPA if I was to get accepted into school. I sometimes enjoy doubt because it motivates me to prove a person wrong, but in that moment, I was unfortunately doubtful of my own abilities. 

 There were a few guests, special appearances, and faculty members present at FINAO. I was intrigued by the stories the guest shared with us about their journey to success; it was inspirational. As the program was ending, a Black female faculty member raised her hand to mention that she was an academic advisor and if anyone needed additional help to schedule an appointment with her. 

 I immediately scheduled an appointment with her the following day. She not only convinced me to persevere through my obstacles but she told me I should never doubt myself like that again. I would be just as qualified to apply to physical therapy school as anyone else. She didn’t want me to live my life in regret, and she turned out to be  the push I needed. I will be forever grateful for Mrs. Beverly McCall because she saw something in me that I didn’t.