Applying

Two blog posts in one day? I'm fairly impressed with myself, haha.

I wanted to announce that I've decided to apply for the degree program at Union Institute & University. The focus is on maternal/child health - lactation consultation and education. What does this mean? That if I'm accepted, I'll be working towards a bachelors degree which will ultimately allow me to sit for the IBCLC (Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant) examination! Anyone who knows me, is fully aware that this is a big deal - I have an unwavering passion for breastfeeding and supporting breastfeeding Mamas. While I struggled with breastfeeding, I saw several IBCLCs, my experiences weren't positive - and completely disheartening. Not only am I determined to be at the top of my class (here comes miss narcissism) , but I'd like to pass the IBCLCE and focus in women with diagnosed cases of Insufficient Glandular Tissue.

What does this mean for my midwifery education? I've been doing a lot of thinking and self-reflection - and I don't think I'm being completely fulfilled by the CPM (certified professional midwife) route. I love so many aspects, but I'd like to have access to the more medical aspects. What's nice is that after I finish this degree program (again, if I'm accepted); I could apply to a school like Frontier and enter their bridge program. Which allows for people who haven't chosen the prerequisite nursing route - to catch up. I'm still struggling with this decision, which is why I'm taking a break from the mandatory midwifery education. Meaning, I'm still staying up to date with the research, new information, and keeping my nose in midwifery texts.

Where am I in the application process for Union? Well, my application is in as well as my incredibly personal entrance essay. They asked me to discuss my personal history and why I am interested in such a unique program. It's been years since I've had to write anything on a collegiate level, and let's just say that my grammar was a little out-of-practice. Now, I'm waiting for transcripts to be processed from my three previous schools, which should cut down on the number of general education credits I need to fulfill. It's ridiculous how long it takes. You would think a person could simply hop online and order copies of their transcripts - no muss, no fuss, no technological hiccups. Unfortunately, that's precisely what happened. OU doesn't have an online transcript system, Tufts network screwed the process up and logged me out, and then cancelled the order without approval - leaving me with a 3.00 charge for nothing (they're getting a very angry call for me on Monday). SMFA is the closest to working accurately, however, now I have to wait for an off-line/snail mail form to arrive at the National Student Clearinghouse, to make sure they have my "official" okay to submit the transcript.

Oy.

I'm going to be writing about school, if I get accepted. I'm actually beyond excited, and completely driven. Maybe it's because I've actually found something I'm passionate about - or because I have a daughter, and she pushes me to be the best person I can be every day of my life. I'm anticipating taking a full-time, overburdened load (essentially taking as many courses as they, and our finances will allow) per semester. I can't believe I'm re-entering college at 23 - although, I have to remind myself that it still means I'm EXTREMELY young, just very accomplished.