Chapter 1: You've been accepted
"So, Miss Foster, why are you applying for our undergraduate program in Biology?"
Ariadne was wearing her best formal attire: a knee-length black dress that accentuated her curves, a black cardigan, black tights and black glittery ballerina flats. And for luck, she wore a string of pearls that was given by her mother. She longed for her presence and her assurance that everything will be okay, especially right now when she was being interviewed by the dean of natural sciences.
"Ma'am, life, as a whole, has always captured my fascination. I mean, the evolution of life has always been mysterious and somehow, I believe, my studies would help contribute to a greater understanding of the interconnectedness of our lives, and maybe we could usher the human race to the next level of evolution."
Ariadne lost herself while she was answering the dean's question. She spoke with so much passion, evidenced by the dynamic use of her hands while she was talking and she seemed oblivious to the fact that the dean was giving her a piercing stare. Seeing the dean's stern reaction, Ariadne settled back into her seat and cleared her throat, nervously anticipating the dean's response.
"Miss Foster, rarely have I seen applicants with so much passion and tenacity. What most students don't understand is that studying is more than knowledge, but a matter of attitude. And from what I heard, I know you have the attitude. Congratulations, Miss Foster."
The dean stood up to shake Ariadne's hand. In response, she numbly mimicked the dean's actions, struggling to keep her mouth closed from the overwhelming shock.
"I'm looking forward to seeing you settled this fall."
"Thank you so much, ma'am. Have a pleasant day."
"Same to you, Miss Foster."
The dean seemed to lose all formality as she smiled at Ariadne. Ariadne did her best to smile politely and then she exited the dean's office. Once she reached outside, she walked as fast as she could to the university courtyard. She sat by the fountain and took a deep breath.
A tear rolled down her cheek. She looked up to the sky and said, "this one's for you mom and dad..." A smile was glued to her face, knowing that she had been accepted to the university of her dreams.