It was move-in day, on a very sunny Saturday, as we approached the archaic gate of Seleby's Metropolitan University (SMU). With an abundance of maple leaves scattered on the ground and cars bustling in and out, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. Students chatted animatedly, and lines formed at the cafes, and lots of huge buildings- faculties, I suppose. I could almost feel the thrill of new friendships, late-night study sessions, and the adventures that awaited just around the corner.
"Not bad for a university campus," Dad remarked as we drove towards my dorm. He's had some reservations about my choice of coming to SMU, often comparing it to Oxley University. He appreciates Oxley for its rich history, advanced resources, and exceptional teaching style. He believes Oxley has a lot to offer.
Well, it was quite chaotic a few weeks back...
I was on the waiting list for SMU and had recently submitted my revised essay explaining my desire to join the university. With my strong academic performance, I felt optimistic about my chances for admission.
I just logged onto my computer to check my admission status and discovered that I had been accepted. I let out a scream, and then my mom entered the room, noticing me bouncing with joy. She looked at my computer and was thrilled as well and hurried off to inform my Dad. Her swift exit made me realize the predicament I was in, and I knew my Dad wouldn't be pleased either. "Annabel Neta Berkeley!!" My body went stiff as I heard my Dad's cold, stern voice. He only uses all my names when I'm in trouble.
" Yes, sir!" I quickly made my way to his study, where he was seated, and glanced at my mom as she offered me a shaky smile.
"You submitted an application to a different university without my permission, Annabel."
"Dad, I didn't mean for it to come across that way. I just thought having a backup plan could help, especially since Oxley is so competitive. I honestly didn't think I'd have a chance with either of them," I said softly, looking down, anticipating his disappointment.
"Honestly, it's disappointing. Your sisters have consistently impressed me with their achievements in their fields. I expect more from you –how long are you going to be a disappointment?"
A disappointment, huh, I just ruined one interview, and now I'm a disappointment, just ONE. My eyes swelled up. Sometimes I find it tough to measure up to my sisters, who have achieved so much. My older sister is part of the legal team for a congressman, and my other sister is a resident doctor at Oxley University Hospital. My younger brother may not excel academically, but he shines in football and is currently in a training camp, which is really impressive. I've noticed that my dad has a different approach with him unlike with us, with ME. I often think about how different things might be if I were a boy...
"You don't need to be upset with her for starting at a new school; she anticipated how you'd feel, which is why she hesitated to mention it. It could actually be a positive change for her. You know some other people who go there, too, so it might not be so bad after all," Mom said gently as she placed her hand on Dad's shoulder. She looked at me warmly, encouraging me to step away for a moment. I had faith that she'd eventually help him see it differently. Dad really does listen to her; his love for her shines through in moments like this.
I shut my room door, and the thought of being in the same school as my friends lit me up. They got in long ago, both Art Majors. I smiled and texted them quickly...
We arrived at my dorm, and I texted James while Dad parked the car. He began complaining about the meeting he needed to attend. No one forced him to come, but he insisted that he wanted to see the school for himself. Since the Walters are going there too, he felt it was worthwhile to visit.
James strolled over with a big smile as we stepped out of the car. "Hey Anne!" he exclaimed, wrapping his arms around me in a warm hug. Then he turned to my mom, calling out, "Hey Ma!" and gave her a cheerful hug as well. He faced my Dad and hesitated. "Mr. Berkeley, sir," he said, reaching out to shake my Dad's hand, who left James's hand in mid-air for a moment before finally accepting it.
"Where is your brother? He was supposed to join me here."
"Sir, he has a couple of matters to address at his department; he will arrive soon." James cautiously approached me before my Dad could have a go at him.
Hardly two minutes passed before I spotted Nic's tall figure approaching us, dressed in straightened grey trousers and a black collared shirt neatly tucked in.
Naturally, my Dad would be eager to have a conversation with him; everyone is captivated by Nic and often seeks to engage with him. He is his father's pride, studying law, with aspirations of eventually taking over his father's law firm. Nic was drawn into his father's world at a very young age, practically growing up at the firm and developing into a prodigy. His father frequently boasts about Nic's accomplishments, grades, and everything he undertakes; this is why my Dad is impressed by him and always engages in conversations with him. After all, my Sister studied law and was part of the legal team for the government. He feels students in professional programs are worth his energy...