Connecting the Dots
Substack, Grad school, and Community
Hello! Hope you are doing well!!
This newsletter was supposed to go out on Friday… But alas that did not happen— and now it’s Monday.
But I told myself I would get something out today because I will be out of town the rest of the week for my last ever collegiate sports competition! It’s a sad feeling— but I’m ready for a new adventure.
And that leads me into the topic of this post…
Four weeks before I started this Substack, I applied to graduate school. But three months ago, I was struggling to write my personal statement for the application.
It wasn’t because I don’t want to go to grad school—far from it. The struggle came from trying to put into words what I want my career goals to be. My goals feel like they’re always shifting. What I want to pursue one month often evolves into something different the next.
However, I did eventually figure it out (my letter that is)… and I would like to share the first paragraph of my personal statement when I was applying to my top school:
My career goals have evolved over time, but storytelling has always felt like a natural fit for me. As someone who craves change and thrives on being in the field, I envision a career where I can travel frequently, discovering and sharing stories that resonate with diverse communities. From an early age, I have been captivated by the arts and their ability to communicate profound stories, a passion that deepened during my undergraduate work because of Montevallo’s culturally rich community. Uncovering the narratives of local people and places steeped in art and history inspired me to pursue journalism that celebrates the human experience and the power of creativity. I aspire for my work to entertain and inspire, inviting audiences to think deeply about the world around them. My favorite word, "sonder," encapsulates my approach to storytelling: the recognition of the vast and complex lives others live. This realization, equal parts sorrowful and comforting, motivates me to seek out the untold stories that connect us all.
Cypris
Even before I found substack and began writing here, my mission has stayed the same—without me even realizing it. Looking back at the things I’ve created—whether it’s articles, essays, poems, or broadcast news projects, there’s almost always a common thread. People and Community. This passion has been in me this whole time and now I’m left wondering why it took me so long to realize it.
Writing my personal statement felt like uncovering a piece of myself. It forced me to pause and reflect on everything that brought me to this moment—the stories I’ve told, the people I’ve met, and the lessons I’ve learned.
I share this because I know I’m not alone in feeling unsure about the future or struggling to define a path forward. Maybe the answer is it’s okay not to know and it’s okay to change your mind as many times as you want, but trust in the passions that guide you and let them evolve to something you love.
I am elated to say, that I did get into grad school! And though I now have a 16 month timeline where I know where I am and what I’m doing… after that?! I have no idea. I don’t know where the universe will take me, but I’m ready for this next chapter and excited to see where it leads me.
with love,
Cypris
Shoutouts of the week!
There are so many incredible people out there, but these individuals truly stand out! They are so supportive and have all personally taken time to jump into my chat or comment section, always bringing kindness and encouragement. I’m so grateful for you today!<3
Just seeing this post. Congrats on getting into grad school, that’s huge. All the best!