Dear Project ACEe students 2002,

Project ACEe is a wonderful opportunity for high school students with interest in medicine to meet physicians, observe them in the work place and to learn about what it takes to achieve the goal of becoming a medical doctor. Congratulations to all who participated this year.
The experience of discussing study and writing skills, understanding how to overcome standardize testing, and applying to college will help you move ahead of other students who have not had this opportunity. Take full advantage of enriching opportunities to learn now and in the future. I have been impressed with the level of maturity each of you displays. At each stage of your life you will be judged by your level of accountability and responsibility. Do not blame others for your short falls always except the burden. Determine what you should do differently to move ahead. Never listen to voices of doubt. If you believe achievement is possible, then it is. You will accomplish your goals if there is a true will. True will is determined by your belief in yourself. True will takes work. Think for yourself. Don't ever let yourself be rushed into decisions. Good decisions take time. It is never a bad thing to ask for advice from those you trust. They have your best interest at heart. If someone tries to rush you and belittle you they really don't have your best interest at heart. Learning will be a life long occupation. Medicine is always changing, new mechanisms of life are discovered, along with new drugs, new procedures and, evolving species. The list goes on and on. READ as much as possible during your free time. Pick areas of interest which you have little knowledge and explore them through reading books, internet articles, news journals, and other resources. Your ability to grasp new information will be tested over and over. This is a fun challenge. Go for it. As a health care provider, it will be important for you to be a good role model in personal care. Don't forget to get enough sleep, eat a well balanced diet and balance work with play. Learn to relax in stressful situations. Remember it's not what happens to you, it is how you react to it that determines your state of anxiety. Learn stress management techniques now. Exercise regularly. Resist the temptations of the world which may prevent you from accomplishing your goals. Continue to study diligently and succeed. We look forward to following your careers through the end of high school, into college, graduate school and the work place. Please keep in touch. Good luck!

Sincerely,

Michelle Whitehurst-Cook, M.D.