#in order to get your bachelor certificate

[anotherpapercut]

posts with library workers discussing library business where they feel the need to make it very clear whether or not they have an MLS are so annoying. like that makes them the ultimate authority on basic ass library shit that even most regular patrons understand

[saintobio]

sincerely yours. (11)

↳ gojou satoru/reader

when a twist of fate led their marriage to the path of a quintessential tragic romance, two past lovers go through another series of experiences on love, heartbreak, identity, illness, and trauma along the road to a happily ever after. 

genre. heavy angst, amnesia, modern au, 18+ 

tags/warnings. depression, cheating, trauma, implied suicide attempt, toxic relationships

notes. 12k wc. we're so close to the finale <3 thanks so much for the continued support and for the patience you guys have with this series :')

series masterlist -> episode twelve

For better and worse. 

Weddings are funny things. Despite the strict adherence to ceremonial traditions, they didn’t guarantee a happily ever after. Exchanging vows and the signing of marriage certificates could become meaningless when a couple faces challenges that would drive them apart. Consider the high-profile divorces of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck, or Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise. Divorce had become so common that it almost seemed inevitable for many couples, even the ones with the most fairytale-like relationships. No one was safe from the idea of a divorce. So, was having a wedding really that important? Would it really define the quality and longevity of a relationship?

Satoru might have been thinking bitterly about it, given that his own marriage wasn’t exactly a shining success. However, he was also being rational when he said that weddings weren’t necessary to prove your love for each other. Early in his marriage, he certainly wasn’t the best husband, but over time, he learned to genuinely become a good partner to his ex-wife. There was no specific time frame for loving someone. You could be together for weeks, months, or years, yet the depth of love you share might remain unchanged. This constancy can be either a blessing or a curse, depending on how deep your love was from the beginning.

Well… On the topic of marriages, Satoru had no good thing to say. But that didn’t mean he shouldn’t participate in it. Weddings were still considered a special celebration for families and close friends, and He would be selfish not to share in such a beautiful event with his best friends. Besides, wasn’t it always expected that Suguru and Shoko would end up marrying each other? They were lucky—fortunate because their marriage was built on a foundation of genuine love. In contrast, Satoru’s marriage began out of convenience, which ultimately led to all the terrible things that followed.

As the best man, Satoru strode confidently alongside Suguru down the aisle, both adorned in princely tuxedos, drawing the eyes of the guests as they followed their procession. There were teasing remarks, smiles all around, and even a comment from one of the groom’s female cousins about how handsome they both looked. Despite the gentle commotion, Satoru understood why Suguru remained nervous as they reached the end of the aisle. He comfortingly stood by his side, offered a reassuring pat on the back, silently communicating to his best friend that everything would be alright.

“Don’t tell me you’ll back out now,” Satoru jested, whispering in Suguru’s ear as they observed the guests entering in accordance with the processional order.

Suguru, with his once long hair now neatly trimmed and slicked back, cleared his throat in an attempt to appear less anxious. “What if she gets cold feet?” 

Gojou couldn’t help but tease. “Shoko? You really think she’d have cold feet?” he chuckled. “She’d be the one dragging your ass back to this garden if you tried to run away.”

“Fair enough.” 

Just the night before, they had checked into the Hoshinoya Fuji to celebrate Suguru's last night of freedom. While there was drinking involved, one of the groomsmen insisted it wouldn’t be a proper bachelor’s party without some female company. So, inevitably, there were women in the hotel room, one of whom even gave Suguru a lap dance even though he showed no interest whatsoever. It was amusing to Satoru, considering his best friend used to be the biggest casanova, and now he was a committed and loyal man who, not only was terrified out of his wits on his wedding day, but was also afraid that the one woman he loved might run away from him.

Such genuine, pure love. 

As Satoru pondered, his gaze landed on Akemi, who was seated a couple of rows back among the other guests. She had just arrived, her hair tied elegantly in a low ponytail and her silky sage dress accentuating her womanly figure flawlessly. She was wearing the diamond Tiffany & Co. earrings he had gifted her, which made her stand out among the rest of the people in that garden. Their eyes also met at the perfect moment, her gaze sparkling upon seeing Satoru in his tuxedo. He offered her a smile, one that silently conveyed ‘I’ll be there with you later,’ and she immediately understood. 

How fortunate was Satoru to have her? Perhaps the reason for her late appearance was because she had been looking after Sachiro back home, fulfilling the duties that his ex-wife should have been doing. She was truly a mother who stepped up, especially during a time when both he and his son felt most abandoned.

And what about you? Who knew if you would even attend the wedding? You were meant to be Ieiri’s maid-of-honor, yet you were conspicuously absent. Perhaps you were still in Monaco, enjoying your time playing house with Toji, making a wedding like this seem insignificant to you. You would have informed Miwa in advance and picked up Sachiro if you had returned to Tokyo, right? Suguru also hadn’t mentioned anything about your arrival at the accommodation, hinting that someone else would have to step in as Shoko's maid-of-honor.

But who would it be? Shoko’s cousin? One of her other female co-workers? Her high school friend? 

“Look, mom! She’s beautiful~”

Satoru was rendered speechless, utterly captivated by the sight before him. His fingers tingled with anticipation, his heart raced in his chest, his feet felt rooted to the ground, and his eyes remained fixed on the next lady gracefully making her way down the aisle. He couldn’t quite pinpoint what struck him the most: was it the sight of you in a stunning light green dress, resembling an angel descended from the heavens, or was it the haunting reminder of his own wedding day, when you walked down the same aisle as his most beautiful bride?

His breath caught in his throat, his chest tightening with each step you took down the aisle. Satoru felt like a statue, frozen in place, unable to tear his gaze away from you. You had become the sole focus of his attention, the rest of the world fading into a blur around him. He couldn’t comprehend it. Why was it so effortless for him to let his guard down around you?

This woman, he thought. This woman is Sachiro’s mother. This was the same woman that carried his flesh and blood for nine months, now appearing as radiant as a freshly bloomed flower, as if untouched by the stresses of unexpected motherhood. What had transpired in Monaco to transform you into this vision of beauty?

“You’re drooling.” Suguru nudged him on the chest. “This isn’t your wedding. You had your chance.” 

Yes, he was well aware. This wasn’t his wedding, and he needed to maintain composure. Yet, it felt as though he was being drawn inexorably towards the mesmerizing goddess before him. With each beat of his heart quickening, he struggled to remind himself: No, Satoru. She's nothing to you now.

And because he was lost in a trance, he remained oblivious to the bride’s entrance and even Suguru’s emotional reaction to seeing his bride. His attention was solely fixated on you as he stole glances your way whenever he could. It wasn’t until the exchanging of rings, when you two had to stand side by side to assist the bride and groom, that he snapped back to reality. With you so close yet seemingly distant, Satoru felt a pang of disappointment as you never returned his gaze. The whispers and side comments from the guests also added to his discomfort, making him acutely aware of the scrutiny placed upon the best man and maid-of-honor.

“Aren’t they divorced?”

“Yeah, their marriage was a wreck.” 

“They’re bad luck. I hope they don’t pass it onto the couple.”  

For the first time in a long time, Satoru was gripped by an unprecedented desire to retort, to refute the misconceptions surrounding his marriage. Yet, he knew it was futile. Engaging in a verbal sparring match with another guest would only ruin his best friends' special day. Moreover, he might risk causing unintentional hurt to Akemi by defending a marriage that had long ceased to exist. So, despite the internal turmoil, he remained silent, allowing the whispers to persist unchecked.

And, with that, the wedding ceremony ended. Shoko and Suguru were now declared husband and wife. 

— — 

The reception was a time for socializing, enjoying drinks and hors d’oeuvres, and congratulating the newlyweds. For Suguru and Shoko, this part of the celebration felt effortless and their energies were seamlessly complementing each other’s. Unlike arranged marriages, there was no sense of haste or coercion; theirs was a union born of genuine affection. You couldn’t help but feel foolish for ever entertaining the notion that this was merely a conventional wedding experience. Here, before your eyes, unfolded a true celebration of love between two people.

Did Satoru share the same sentiments? You wondered what thoughts raced through his mind during the proceedings. Did the event trigger memories of his own past, or stir feelings of longing for what could have been?

You refused to subject yourself to the torment of dwelling on your past. If anything, your time living alone in Monaco had been a crucial step in your healing journey. While the process was far from complete, that solitary retreat had provided a much-needed respite from the source of your stress. It afforded you the opportunity to contemplate the life you were destined to lead, albeit alone for the foreseeable future.

By allowing Sachiro to spend more time with his father, you not only facilitated the rebuilding of their fractured relationship, but also acclimated your child to your absence. It was a necessary adjustment, one that would prepare him for the reality of your impending solitary existence. At least, Sachiro had a chance to live in a loving household with Satoru and Akemi, instead of a miserable and lonely way of living together with you. 

In the end, it was all for your child. 

As for the potential emotional minefield of attending this wedding, you were there for Shoko, who had always been a steadfast and understanding presence in your life. Her genuine friendship meant more to you than mere familial bonds ever could. Even at the risk of stirring up unhealthy emotions by being in a room full of people who hurt you, you couldn’t bear to disappoint Ieiri. 

Admittedly though, navigating the wedding crowd was a delicate balance of warmth and formality. Ieiri’s side of the family, who were doctors heavily acquainted with your family, greeted you with genuine warmth. While Suguru’s relatives, who were more closely tied to the Gojou family, maintained a polite distance. Although there were occasional moments of discomfort, you knew how to maintain composure throughout. 

As for Toji’s absence, while a part of you wished he could have been there as a supportive presence, you also recognized the value in learning to handle situations involving your ex-husband independently. He had an unavoidable business trip, but that also provided an opportunity for you to stop relying on him and navigate such occasions like these on your own. He was nothing more than a friend now. 

While that ex-husband, Satoru, was here with your best friend. It didn’t surprise you that he had brought Akemi as a plus one. In fact, you had expected it to happen. It just wasn’t the best feeling to be the maid-of-honor when the best man clearly had another lady for it in mind. 

It was quite amusing, too. Not once had Akemi approached you during the reception. You understood that she wanted to keep her distance, but you found it disrespectful that she was ignoring your existence. Was she scared to talk to you? Scared of what you had to say? You had heard over a million hurtful things from other people, yet she was afraid to hear a few pieces of advice from you?  

Forget it. Forget her and Satoru. Focus on the reception, Y/N. 

But really, how could you? As the moment arrived for the newlyweds’ first dance, tradition dictated that the best man and maid-of-honor should also take to the floor. You sensed the tension in the air as Satoru hesitated, surrounded by urging groomsmen, deciding whether or not he should ask you for a dance. He looked like he was battling with what was right and wrong in his mind, yet ultimately he chose to pass by you, extending his hand to Akemi instead.

It wasn’t feelings of shame that slapped you to reality. It was seeing Satoru holding Akemi’s hand, another on her waist, as they slowly danced to Can’t Help Falling In Love, a song that was played on your wedding day. 

Take my hand

Take my whole life too

Oh, for I can’t help

Falling in love with you

It shouldn’t hurt anymore. You were doing better. You were doing so good, you were doing… you were okay. You should be okay. Or did you overestimate your emotions a little too much? Because this, seeing the man you loved with all your heart holding another woman in his arms, was tortuous to your soul. You could feel the pains of your past tugging at your heart, wondering why he never danced like that with you on your wedding day? Why he never stared at you like you were the most beautiful girl in the world, why he never showed you off in a room full of curious people, why he never respected you enough to treat you with such… with such love. 

“Everything okay?”

You didn’t expect Nanami, out of all people, to be offering you a handkerchief. You hadn’t even realized that your eyes were already pooling of the tears if he had not cut you out of trance, offering a comforting and sympathetic smile. You had to blink multiple times just to push your tears back in. 

“Yeah,” you answered with a grateful expression. I’m strong. I’ll be fine. “Thank you.” 

Nanami took that as a sign to offer his hand. “Care for a dance, then?” 

Wiping your eyes, you nodded, smiling at the man. “Why not?” 

After the dance, the reception continued as follows. The cake cutting, the dinner service, then the toasts and speeches. If it wasn’t for Nanami, you wouldn’t have been able to pick yourself back up after the humiliation of seeing Satoru and Akemi dancing together. You just needed a decent amount of air to breathe and gather yourself together again. It was a nice help from someone who wasn’t a personal acquaintance of yours, that despite being Satoru’s right hand man in the company, Nanami still had some kindness in him that you would forever be thankful for. 

And when it was time for you to do your speech as the MOH, you didn’t let a single vulnerable emotion slip out of you. For that short moment, you tried not to think about who was in the audience, about what they thought of you, and about what other preconceived notions they had of you. You focused on the newlyweds as you stood in front of the mic stand, eye-to-eye with Shoko and Suguru, who were holding each other’s hands. 

“Shoko,” you began, smiling genuinely at the couple, “Through the laughter and tears, you’ve been my constant, my confidante, my rock. And today, as I watch you embark on this new chapter of your life, I’m honestly a bit overwhelmed with emotion.” 

The bride returned your smile, and you can tell Shoko was holding back tears of her own as she glanced between you and Satoru. 

You continued your speech, observing Suguru’s supportive gesture towards his wife as you spoke. “Shoko, I recall our late-night conversations, the tears shed over broken marriages, and the pain of shattered relationships. Yet, through it all, you’ve remained steadfast in your belief in love, in hope, in the possibility of a happily ever after.” Turning to Suguru, although he still had that lingering discomfort around you, you offered him nothing but heartfelt words. “As I look at you and Suguru, I’m reminded that true love exists—a love that is patient, kind, and enduring. My wish for you both is a lifetime filled with laughter, joy, and unwavering support for each other. May you cherish each other’s hearts, protect each other’s dreams, and weather life’s storms together, stronger in your love. Suguru, during your challenging days as a married couple, I pray that you always look at Shoko and remember why you love her. I pray that you will always have the capacity to cherish and respect her as your wife and the future mother of your children. May you keep her in your heart, no matter what challenges may come your way.”

As tears welled in Ieiri’s eyes, your voice faltered, the magnitude of your wishes for their marriage weighing heavily on your own unfulfilled desires. You weren’t trying to make this about you, and you hoped they thought that, too. 

“As I raise my glass to toast this beautiful union,” you said, raising the champagne glass on your hand, “I do so with a heart full of love and a silent prayer—that your love story will be one of triumph, of healing, and of endless happiness. Congratulations, Shoko and Suguru!”

— —

Satoru was deeply affected by your speech. Both in good and bad ways. On one hand, he was touched by the sincerity of your words and the genuine wishes you extended to the newlywed couple. On the other hand, he couldn’t shake off the pang of guilt and remorse that accompanied your words, knowing all too well the history behind them. When you expressed your hopes for Suguru to always cherish and respect Shoko, Satoru couldn’t help but reflect on his own behavior during your marriage and the ways in which he may have fallen short.

Each action he did definitely had a lasting impact on you. 

But what about the good ones? Had you forgotten about the times he treated you well? Had you forgotten the lengths he took just to prove to you that he was a changed man? That at one point in his life, he would do everything in him just to show you how much he loved you? 

It was unfair. Why did you only ever look at the bad things he did and never the good ones? Why did you still see him as a villain in your marriage when he knew he had paid his dues after he lost you?

It was truly, honestly unfair, that you get to be happy with Toji, but he ought to feel guilty for being with Akemi. 

“I think they’re about to do the bouquet and garter toss,” spoke Akemi, tugging at Satoru’s arm while they sat on their designated table. She held a napkin on her other hand to wipe her partner’s chin, smiling in excitement. “You should go and join.” 

Where were you? After your speech, Satoru couldn’t seem to find you anymore. Where had you gone off to? Did you leave already? 

“Y-Yeah,” Satoru answered, looking around the venue before turning to Akemi. “What about you? Won’t you join the bouquet toss thing?” 

She shook her head, hesitantly. “Isn’t it only for bridesmaids?” 

He grabbed her hand and urged her up. “No, it’s for all unmarried female guests. Come on.” 

The reason Satoru dragged her along was because Akemi loved weddings, and she especially enjoyed the traditions that came with it. She herself once dreamt about the picture perfect wedding, but never got to fully have her own, so attending such occasions made up for the lack of personally experiencing it. 

Gojou couldn’t exactly remember if he did the garter toss in his own wedding. If so, who had caught it? Who had caught your bouquet? His eyes swept across the entire venue once more, searching for your familiar figure among the guests. He was too occupied to realize that Shoko had already tossed her bouquet, and the frenzy of eager ladies ensued until it landed in Akemi’s hands.

He genuinely felt happy for Akemi. The joy in her eyes upon catching Shoko’s bouquet was unmistakable. Yet, as the playful teasing about a potential wedding for him shifted in his direction, Satoru couldn’t help but feel a twinge of pressure. It wasn’t supposed to weigh on him like this. It was too soon to have that expectation of him. 

“Looks like someone’s getting married next!”

And while he was feeling suffocated from the pressure placed upon him, the receiver of the tossed garter happened to have been Nanami. 

Immediately, the teasing ensued, with the other guests urging Nanami to wear the garter on Akemi’s leg. Out of respect, Nanami looked at Gojou for permission, but honestly? He was just grateful he didn’t have to do all that and be pressured about another wedding that he had not yet thought about. Fuck it, thank God Nanami had caught the garter because Satoru was sure as hell starting to feel uneasy there. 

“Go for it,” was the only thing Satoru said to Nanami, gesturing his chin at Akemi’s direction. 

While everyone was focused on the situation between Nanami and Akemi, Satoru took that opportunity to escape from the crowd and find his peace at the balcony. He hastily made his way out of the reception hall, feeling a sense of relief as he could finally breathe. 

And there you were, standing alone, lost in contemplation, and your gaze fixed upon the tranquil expanse of the lakeside. The chill breeze caressed your hair softly, as if mirroring the calm that enveloped your countenance. In another universe, this would have been an opportune moment to hug you from behind, sharing the warmth of his embrace around your figure. But he was living in a universe where you and him weren’t meant to be together.

In fact, you were probably thinking about another man as you stared at the lake, hoping that he was there with you. 

“Did you have fun in Monaco with Toji?” Satoru was crazy for going straight to the point, and he knew it was a blunt inquiry, bordering on intrusive, but it tumbled out nonetheless, revealing the thoughts that had been plaguing in his mind. His words spilled out before he could rein them in, a question born of curiosity and perhaps a touch of jealousy.

As for you, with your peace in the balcony now ruined, you briefly opened your mouth to respond, but held back against it as you met Gojou’s eyes with a distant stare. You were even quick to look away and sigh, like he was not worth the conversation. You had not spoken a word to him since the wedding ceremony and you were definitely going to keep doing it. 

And man, did that hurt his ego. 

So, for a very stupid reason, he felt the need to hurt yours in return. “Do you know Sachi calls Akemi ‘mama’ in his sleep?” 

Your eyes remained empty. “Good for you, then. You won’t have a hard time getting him accustomed to it.” 

“Y/N.” Satoru’s voice came out as a warning, and he was about to start an argument on why you were abandoning him and Sachi over Toji, but he was interrupted at the appearance of Akemi carrying Shoko’s bouquet as she tried to search for her lover. This meant that the conversation with the ex-wife was over.

But as he glanced between you and Akemi, his bitter past and his sweet present, why did Satoru’s heart still lingered with you when it shouldn’t?

“You should go,” you briefly muttered, walking in the opposite direction, “Your future wife’s looking for you.”

Satoru’s sudden grip on your wrist halted your steps abruptly. His voice carried a bitter edge as he reminded you of the agreement you had made. “Y/N, we agreed to co-parent Sachiro properly. Why are you choosing Toji over your own son?” 

The accusation left a tense atmosphere, eliciting a sharp response from you as you yanked your hand away, a flash of anger igniting in your eyes. “You have no idea what you're talking about, Satoru.”

— —

“Welcome to Hoshinoya Fuji, Ms. L/N!” 

You stepped out of the car, taking in the serene beauty of the lakeside cabin that would be your sanctuary for the next three days and two nights. Nestled among towering pines and sturdy oaks, the cabin exuded a rustic charm that blended seamlessly with the natural landscape. Its weathered wooden exterior, adorned with a green tin roof, seemed to have grown organically from the earth itself.

The cabin sat on a gentle slope that led directly to the water’s edge. A wooden deck wrapped around the front, offering a perfect vantage point for gazing out over the tranquil lake. Your room also had the best view of Mount Fuji, which you thought was the highlight of this luxurious accommodation. 

After the newlywed send-off, you were quickly ushered in by Shoko and Suguru’s staff, who were in charge of attending to the special guests staying a few extra days at the cabin. Though the couple wouldn’t start their proper honeymoon until their 6-month long cruise trip in two weeks, they wanted their guests to enjoy the accommodations they had arranged. You were relieved to hear that, despite Satoru and Akemi also being among the friends staying, each guest had their own private cabin reserved.

The thing was, you could leave any time if you wanted to. Shoko also reassured you that it would be okay and that she would understand if you wanted to go home right away. She knew that the situation may be uncomfortable for you, and that she felt bad you even had to deal with it during the ceremony, but you made a promise to her. You were her maid-of-honor for a reason, and part of your duty was to help with the post-ceremony tasks to ensure that Shoko can focus on enjoying her pre and post-wedding activities. 

So, in some ways, you felt obliged to stay. You didn’t need to interact much with others during your stay, anyway. You were content staying in your room, perhaps taking some occasional walks outside. Satoru could do whatever he wanted with Akemi; you were determined to avoid crossing their paths.

Besides, inside the cabin was a cozy retreat. The main living area featured large windows that framed the picturesque view, allowing moonlight to spill in and illuminate the space. A stone fireplace, complete with a rustic mantel adorned with pinecones and candles, stood as the centerpiece of the room. Plush armchairs and a worn leather sofa invited relaxation, while a handwoven rug added a touch of warmth and color.

As you moved towards the bedroom, you found a comfortable queen-sized bed covered in a soft, plaid quilt. The scent of pine mingled with the faint aroma of fresh linens, creating an atmosphere of peaceful haven. An old-fashioned dresser and a bedside table, topped with a simple lamp, completed the room. The windows here, too, offered a glimpse of the sparkling lake, ensuring that the beauty of nature would greet you each morning.

Stepping outside, you walked down a short path to the water’s edge, where a small wooden dock extended into the lake. A pair of Adirondack chairs sat invitingly at the end of the dock, perfect for soaking in the sunset or stargazing at night. Nearby, a fire pit surrounded by stones and logs as seating promised cozy evenings under the stars, with the gentle sound of lapping water providing a soothing backdrop.

On your first night there, you ended up falling asleep right away. The physical and emotional exhaustion, combined with jetlag, knocked you out. However, the next day promised a few tasks to complete the post-wedding cleanup. 

The second night, however, was a different story.

When you returned to the cabin, the cool evening air was crisp against your skin. The temperature went down a couple of celsius compared to yesterday, so as you walked down the path toward the lakeside, you were drawn to the flickering glow of a fire pit illuminating the area near the water’s edge. Drawing closer, the soft sounds of laughter and conversation reached your ears, mingling with the gentle crackle of burning logs.

The fire pit was surrounded by a group, their faces lit by the warm, golden light of the flames. They sat on a circle of logs and foldable chairs, leaning in to feel the comforting heat. Some held mugs of steaming cocoa, while others toasted marshmallows on long sticks, their tips glowing bright orange before transforming into gooey, sugary treats.

You paused for a moment and took in the scene. Was it a safe space for you to be in? You noticed familiar faces among the group—some of the couple’s old friends from the wedding, now relaxed and enjoying the peaceful night. One of the guests strummed a guitar softly, the melody adding to the cozy, inviting atmosphere. Another guest told a story, their animated expressions and gestures causing bursts of laughter from the listeners.

There was no sight of Satoru and Akemi. Perhaps, it might be okay to join in.

As you approached, Suguru emerged from a nearby cabin, smiling in a way that felt unusual. Why was he being friendly all of a sudden? Last time you checked, he still held a grudge against you. But now, he showed no signs of antagonism, and was even approaching you with his usual friendly demeanor.

“Y/N,” he said, the fog of his breath visible in the cold air, “I never got to thank you properly for helping us with everything here. I didn’t think you’d make it last minute.”

You wrapped your shawl tighter around yourself to ward off the chill. “It’s no trouble. I’m glad to help out and be here for you guys,” you replied warmly. And while glancing around, you noticed the absence of Shoko. “Where’s the missus?”

Suguru’s smile took on a mischievous edge. “Sleeping. She’s still pretty tired and…”

You interrupted him with a laugh, catching onto his suggestive tone. “Alright, you two. You’re wild.”

His grin softened into a sincere expression. “No, seriously. I never got to properly thank you. I never got to apologize to you either.” Suguru looked down with guilt. “I’m sorry for being an asshole to you. I was focusing too much on Satoru’s point-of-view, dismissing how it must be like to be in your position amidst all that mess. Shoko helped me understand why you made certain decisions, why you had no other option. She helped me see things from your perspective, to realize the extent of your suffering. We all knew that, I guess. We all knew you were constantly dealt a bad hand, yet you remain kind and resilient. You continue to show empathy to others, even when the world hasn’t been fair to you.”

In the ensuing silence, your heart seemed to thunder in your chest. His words carried weight far beyond what he might have intended, and you genuinely appreciated his apology. Even if he didn’t need to say them. 

“I guess what I’m trying to say is, you’re a gem, Y/N.” Suguru gave your back a gentle pat. “You deserve to be happy in your own special way. And just like how you wished us well with our marriage, I hope you’ll find your own path to a happy marriage, too.” 

“Thank you,” you mumbled, looking down with a forlorn smile. 

“We’re here for you, okay?” he offered, “Shoko and I. You can count on us if you need us, if you need help with Sachiro, if you need help with life in general.” 

“I appreciate it, really.” 

And by then, he cleared his throat, opening up a topic that caught you off guard. You didn’t expect it from Suguru out of all people. “Y/N, I know why you were in Monaco.” 

Of course. He’d know it from Shoko. 

“I also know,” he continued, dark narrow eyes staring straight at yours, “why you left Sachiro with his father.” 

You were a deer caught in the headlights. You wouldn’t say it felt invasive to have someone be aware of the reasoning behind your personal decisions, but it was just an altogether different feeling to know that it was your ex-husband’s best friend who knew. 

“Why didn’t you tell him?” he asked, referring to Satoru, “That you broke up with Toji?” 

You took a deep breath. “I don’t see the point of telling him.”

“What if I were to tell you that he’d come running desperately to you the moment he finds out?” he posed another burning question. “You still love him, right? You and him would likely get together without much difficulty if he were aware. So, why hesitate?”

“Because I don’t want that,” you answered, feeling words caught in your throat in a moment of vulnerability. “Because I’m scared to get back with him. Because he has Akemi now. Because I don’t wanna keep ruining the lives of the people around me. We’re better off this way, Suguru. I don’t want to mess up the second time around, and I definitely don’t think Satoru would be able to fully move on with his life with me still in the picture. He seems to be happy with Akemi already.” 

Suguru smiled sadly. “You don’t even wanna get your revenge? Don’t wanna get back at your best friend for dating your ex?” he paused to correct himself, “Well, dating is the wrong term. Satoru insists they’re not exclusive, you know?” 

You shook your head, sighing. Satoru, you haven’t changed. “It doesn’t matter. I’m fine with the way things are.” 

He was on the verge of continuing, poised to persuade further, but the arrival of the very individuals in question brought an abrupt halt to his words. Descending the cabin steps was Shoko, trailed by Satoru, who, in a gesture of warmth, had draped his jacket around Akemi, with his arms encircling her.

All five of you found yourselves in an awkward situation, now faced with two couples, one of which was at the core of your distress. The tension was palpable, and it didn’t help that Satoru’s vivid blue eyes met yours, seemingly trying to decode the conversation between you and Suguru. That was none of his business. He could continue his affectionate display with Akemi, while you had other matters to attend to than be part of an awkward quintet.

“I should go,” you declared, avoiding eye contact with everyone, unwilling to play the fifth wheel. You were hoping to evade Satoru and Akemi’s presence, but both Shoko and Suguru already caught your arm. 

“Y/N, please,” Shoko urged, her arm reaching out to you. “Don't isolate yourself tonight. Come join us.”

The memory of Bora Bora flooded your mind, a painful reminder of a similar situation when Shoko had extended the same invitation, leading to the discomfort of witnessing Sera’s closeness with Satoru. You knew that wasn’t Shoko’s intention, but it was your ex-husband who couldn’t stop catching himself in these situations. 

This was a bad idea. You knew that. 

So, why did you agree? 

Despite your reservations, curiosity got the best of you. You would vehemently deny it if asked, but deep down, you pondered whether Suguru’s words held any truth about Satoru’s lingering feelings for you. It wasn’t out of pettiness, but rather a desire to confirm if Satoru was truly committed to Akemi. You knew this could potentially hurt you, but after enduring so much pain, you couldn’t imagine anything worse.

“Hey, you guys!” 

“It’s nice of you to join us!” 

“What’s up newlyweds?” 

Upon joining the group at the fireplace, you were partly grateful that you weren’t exactly a fifth wheel in the situation. There were about ten or twelve people in total, with the earlier group still remaining in their seats. It just so happened that you were seated right across your ex-husband, who was too busy trying to keep Akemi warm and cozy. 

“So, Y/N…” spoke a man from the group, who appeared to be Suguru’s colleague. “Are you single?” 

The unexpected question caught you off guard, especially the tension it seemed to create, particularly with Satoru who sat stiffly next to Akemi. Even Shoko and Suguru seemed apologetic for their friend’s behavior, but you brushed it off, recognizing that he had probably indulged a bit too much with beer. He was harmless enough when sober.

“Don’t be asking questions like that,” Suguru intervened, tapping the back of his friend’s head in a playful scold. “That’s rude.” 

The friend protested, still oblivious to the discomfort he had caused. “I was just asking! She’s attractive. I have the right to know.”

You forced a smile, accepting the can of beer he had offered. “Thanks, but I—”

“Even if she’s single, she’s not interested in you,” Shoko chimed in, keeping a casual mien. She had to keep things cool, especially with an explosive Gojou around. You were just thankful that she didn’t exactly reveal the status of your relationship with Toji, and that she was doing her best to divert the attention away from you. 

In this little scene, you caught a glimpse of Akemi tugging at Satoru’s arm, like she was uncomfortable with the conversation. Why? Did it trigger an insecurity within her? She couldn’t even return eye-contact, constantly avoiding your eyes and reacting to any conversation remotely related to you. But Satoru was there acting like a concerned boyfriend, whispering reassurance into her ear, and rubbing her knee in a comforting fashion. 

“You two make a lovely couple,” remarked one of the girls, directing her compliment to Satoru and Akemi.“Weren’t you the girl who caught the bouquet? Looks like there might be another wedding on the horizon.”

“Oooh!” 

“They’re an attractive couple, too.” 

“You guys planning for any children?” 

Just like Bora Bora. A bitter smile lingered on your face, but you decided not to look at Satoru anymore. He must be enjoying this. 

Shoko leaned in and placed an arm around you to whisper her apologies. “I’m sorry, Y/N. This was a bad idea.” 

“It’s okay,” you assured, not wanting to ruin the moment. “I’ll leave after I finish my beer so it won’t be awkward.” 

As the night wore on, conversation flowed easily at first, with everyone exchanging stories and laughter, and eventually more beers and liquor were passed around. Shoko and Suguru were lost in the glow of newlywed bliss, while you found yourself increasingly uneasy as memories of the past mingled with the present.

Satoru’s presence beside Akemi was a constant reminder of your failed marriage, and you struggled to suppress the weakness in your chest that threatened to surface. They held hands and watched the fire together, her head resting on his shoulder, his lips on top of her head. She was trying to voice out a specific concern to him, and he was sweetly listening to her. Did they even realize the ex-wife was in the same area with them? It was insensitive. You never knew Satoru could be this insensitive around you, no matter what his reasons were, his romantic gestures towards her was a clear slap to your face. And he succeeded, because you would be foolish not to admit that it broke your heart in half to witness him choosing another woman over you. 

Again, Satoru. Here we go again. You tried to stop the pounding on your chest. Here we fucking are the second time around. 

Desperate to ease the tension, Shoko and Suguru attempted to steer the conversation toward lighter topics, but their efforts only served to highlight the underlying tension in the air. You forced a smile and nodded along with the conversation, but inside, your heart was heavy with unresolved emotions.

And then someone had to bring up that stupid truth or dare game. 

“Satoru-kun, I dare you to kiss the prettiest woman in this group.” 

“Whoo! Do it! Do it! Do it!” 

Satoru was initially hesitant as he clearly found himself at a crossroads. He had two options here. Should he risk hurting Akemi by refusing to kiss her? Or should he risk hurting you by kissing another woman in front of you?

The clear winner was Akemi, because as soon as Gojou pressed his lips onto hers, you were already walking out of there. You had already excused yourself from the group, your footsteps as heavy as your heart. And unbeknownst to you, Satoru watched you go with a flicker of remorse in his eyes, but it was too late for apologies or second chances. The fire continued to crackle and pop as you left, its flames casting long shadows across the empty space where you had sat.

It was game over. Satoru had won his game. 

— —

Satoru was puzzled by your behavior since the wedding. You seemed determined to avoid him, which made sense with Akemi constantly by his side, but there was also an air of desperation to your avoidance. What baffled him even more was the jealousy you exhibited, as if you weren’t involved with another man, to the point where you even flew to another country just to spend more time with him. 

Like you said, you two were no longer married. It was about time you moved on. Yet, how come you were acting heartbroken over seeing Satoru with another woman?

Did you really think leaving the fire pit so abruptly had gone unnoticed?

Did you really think he had taken his eyes off you?

If not for Akemi telling him that she was having pelvic cramps, Gojou would have run off to follow you the minute you left the fire pit. Clearly, you still had an issue seeing him with another girl and he wanted you to voice it out. But if there was anything he learned during your time together, you would never be the first one to admit that you were jealous. Heck, didn’t you even allow him to bring Sera to Bora Bora that one time?

Look, he didn’t want to hurt you all over again. And if you had walked up to him and called him an asshole for having Akemi around, he would even agree with you. But it was your decision to choose Toji, it was your request for Satoru to find someone else, so why did it seem like you were suddenly changing your mind?

“I’m sorry for being a party pooper,” Akemi groaned in discomfort as Gojou helped her back to their cabin. He quickly refocused on their conversation, reminding himself not to dwell on thoughts of you when Akemi needed his attention—it wouldn’t be fair to her. She was suffering from a terrible illness that he wouldn’t wish upon anyone and he had to be her rock. “It’s been hurting quite a bit lately. I really should start with my treatment.”

Once inside their room, he swiftly settled her into bed. “Where does it hurt?” He applied a gentle touch to her pelvic bone, massaging the area to alleviate her discomfort. “Here?”

“Mhm. Thank you,” she lightly spoke, her soft hand caressing his cheek. “I’ll be fine.”

“You look really pale, though. I’m worried,” he remarked, sympathizing with her. Her complexion betrayed the pain she was holding back, though she likely hesitated to admit she wanted to go home and rest. “Do you wanna go home? Even if it’s in the middle of the night, I can have my driver pick us up.”

She shook her head quickly. “No, no. Please, I'll be fine. You won't get to see Shoko and Suguru for a while once they’re on their honeymoon, so I want you to spend time with them here.”

“You sure? But you always come first.” 

“I’ll be okay.” 

As Satoru continued to massage the area where Akemi felt pain, his thoughts inevitably drifted to you. He recalled the time when you were pregnant with Sachiro, experiencing frequent lower abdominal pain as your body adjusted to the baby. Each night, Satoru stayed up, gently rubbing your belly until you drifted off to sleep. It was one of his happiest memories during your marriage—the domestic bliss of being your husband and the memory of him caring for his wife. He wasn’t sure if he was missing it, or if he was just recalling a past memory, but looking at Akemi, Satoru wondered if he was prepared to have all that again but with another woman. 

He couldn’t give himself an answer. 

“I’m such a terrible person.” 

He should be telling himself that, but it was Akemi who said those words out loud as her brown doe-eyes stared at him solemnly, an expression that reflected guilt and remorse in equal measure. 

“How come?” Satoru’s voice was barely above a whisper as he asked, gently tucking the sheets around her while perching on the edge of the bed.

Her smile held a touch of sorrow, yet there was a glimmer of relief in her eyes. “I feel like I’ve failed Y/N. She treated me like family, like a sister, and now I can’t even face her properly. I’m just terrified, you know? I don’t want to keep letting her down. I never meant to cause her pain.”

For a moment, Gojou fell silent at her admission. “It’s all my fault. You two never would have been in this position if it wasn’t for me.” 

“Absolutely not,” Akemi persisted before leaning in to plant a tender kiss on his cheek. “Tonight, you’ve shown me that you’ve truly moved on from her. I was starting to worry, afraid that I could never fill the space she held in your heart. But since the wedding, you’ve never sidelined me or made me feel like an afterthought. You’ve never made me feel like second best. You’ve always prioritized me. I understand it’s hard seeing your ex-wife, but I appreciate your efforts more than you know. You make me feel incredibly special.”

Satoru swallowed hard. The mention of your name sent a pang of guilt coursing through his chest. He knew he had hurt Akemi with his lingering attachment to his past and his inability to fully let go of the woman who had once held his heart in her hands. He wanted to agree with Akemi, to reassure her that he had chosen her, but the truth remained elusive, buried beneath layers of denial and self-deception. He even had to close his eyes for a minute, unable to meet her gaze as a tumult of conflicting emotions swirled within him. He wanted to tell her the truth, to confess the depth of his feelings for his ex-wife, but the words were caught in his throat.

In that moment, Satoru felt more lost and alone than ever before, trapped in a web of his own making, and unable to confront the truth behind his true feelings. Moved on? Had he truly moved on from you, or had he simply buried his feelings beneath a facade of indifference?

“You should rest your eyes,” was the only thing he could tell her, planting a kiss on her forehead before he had turned off the lights. 

With the clock ticking past 11 o’clock and their recent conversation still echoing in his mind, Satoru felt an urgent need for clarity. He knew he had to confront his thoughts alone. So, without disturbing Akemi’s peaceful slumber, he quietly slipped out of the cabin, seeking solace in the night air. Immediately, as he got out, he was met with the apologetic eyes of his best friend. 

“Hey,” Satoru greeted, confused by the urgency in Suguru’s expression. “What’s up?” 

Suguru took a deep breath before he rubbed the back of his head. “There’s something I ought to tell you.” 

— —

You had been standing at the edge of the lake for a while now, the cool night air sending shivers down your spine as you gazed out at the shimmering expanse of water before you. The moon hung low in the sky, casting a silvery glow over the tranquil scene, its soft light dancing on the surface of the lake like a thousand tiny stars.

The temptation to dive into the dark waters below tugged at your heart like a siren’s song, beckoning you to leave behind the pain and sorrow that had plagued you for so long. You longed to feel the icy embrace of the lake envelop you, to lose yourself in its depths and wash away the memories that haunted you every waking moment.

Is this how it feels like to finally let go? 

As you stood on the shore, your toes just inches from the water’s edge, a wave of despair then washed over you, threatening to pull you under like the undertow of a riptide. You thought of Sachiro, your sweet, innocent son, asleep in his bed back in Tokyo, his laughter and smiles serving as an antidote to the pain in your heart.

And then him… 

Tears pricked at the corners of your eyes as you thought of Satoru. Despite the pain he had caused you, it was impossible not to yearn for him still, because his memory was a ghost that haunted you in every waking moment. But you knew that you couldn’t continue to live in the shadow of your past marriage. You had to escape being trapped in a cycle of longing and regret. You owed it to Sachiro to be strong, to find the courage to let go of the man who had once been your everything.

With your empty gaze, the calm lake shimmered in the moonlight like a blanket of liquid silver. You had come to the lake seeking solace, seeking escape from the unbearable pain that gnawed at your heart like a relentless tide. But as tears left your eyes, your emotions threatened to drown you in a sea of despair. 

Without hesitation, you dropped your shawl to the side, shedding yourself off of the cloth with a sense of reckless abandon. The fright of swimming in open water, especially at night, could have you passed out in a matter of seconds, but you paid it no mind as you waded into the water. 

Is this how it feels to finally give up? 

The lake embraced you like an old friend, enfolding you in its cool embrace as you swam out into the darkness. Each stroke brought you closer to the center of the lake, closer to the heart of your pain, and yet you felt strangely at peace, as if the water itself held the key to your salvation. You took time floating on your back, staring up at the stars that glittered like diamonds in the night sky, you felt a sense of clarity wash over you. You knew that your love for Satoru was a burden you could no longer bear.

But more than that, you knew that you couldn’t let your own pain dictate the course of your son’s life. Sachiro deserved better than a mother consumed by sorrow, better than a life overshadowed by the ghosts of the past.

With a deep breath, you let go of the pain that had held you captive for so long. You submerged yourself into the depths of the lake, watching as the night sky vanished beneath the surface like a wisp of smoke in the wind.

In that moment, you felt a sense of freedom unlike anything you had ever known. You just had to stay still. You had to keep yourself underwater, hold your breath until you no longer needed it, and… 

And…

You struggled to breathe, your mind consumed in panic telling you that you would die if you had kept yourself submerged for another minute, but you were adamant on staying there. You fought battles in your own mind, despite your body fighting back to keep you alive. 

At least soon, you would finally meet your mom again. 

“...”

“......”

“....Y/N!” 

“.......Y/N!” 

Feeling your vision blur and your limbs growing limp, you surrendered to the natural sway of the water. Bubbles escaped from your nose, your mouth tightly sealed shut. And the next thing you knew, you were back on the water surface, drawing breath like a fish out of the water. You could feel someone tugging at your arm, could feel the presence of another person dragging you out of the water, his arms pulling you into an embrace. 

“Y/N! What the hell are you thinking?!” 

You sobbed uncontrollably, your heartache pouring out as Satoru cradled you in his arms, his white hair damp from his efforts to rescue you from the water. How and when did he arrive? Your mind couldn’t process the details amidst the turmoil. All you could do was surrender to the flood of tears, feeling paralyzed from head to toe as you cried into his embrace.

Is this another dream? 

Is this another hallucination? 

You released a bitter laugh. Please. You closed your eyes, laughing and crying like a mad person. Please stop the pain. 

“Y/N, please,” his whispers were tender, yet tinged with a sorrow that amplified your heartache. “What about Sachiro?” He, too, shed his own tears, his ocean-blue eyes shimmering in the moonlight as they filled with tears, his voice breaking. “What about me?”

Your face was pressed against his chest, anguish coursing through you, feeling as if your very soul was being torn asunder. “Th-That’s the... the same thing... I’ve been asking myself,” you managed between sobs, struggling to draw a steady breath. “I’m... I’m always th-thinking about other people... and never myself.”

He fell silent, his response lost in the weight of your words, perhaps laden with guilt or his own sorrow. But his presence there, holding you close, as if he still harbored love for you, tore another piece from your already battered heart. He shouldn’t be here. He should have been with Akemi. He should be anywhere but near you. With a surge of adrenaline, you began to push him away, propelling yourself through the water, racing toward the shore despite the weakness in your limbs. Satoru called out your name, his voice a desperate plea, as he followed after you, his movements slower but filled with urgency.

“Stop!” Your voice rose, echoing against the night as you stood on the shore, water cascading from your body in sync with the tears streaming down your face. “L-Leave me alone... Please. Why are you here?”

You knew Satoru well enough to understand what had driven him to chase after you. Perhaps he had grown concerned, either from noticing your absence or from someone informing him of your uncharacteristic nighttime swim. His actions were undoubtedly unusual; he knew all too well of your fear of open water, prompting him to leap into action to rescue you.

But you didn’t need him to be here. You didn’t need him anywhere. He wasn’t yours anymore. 

“Why didn’t you tell me?” he asked, his voice carrying the weight of confusion and concern, his steps cautious as he approached you. He looked at you with tears in his eyes, his expression vulnerable and pleading, like a child seeking comfort, desperately hoping to be understood, to be heard. “You’re not with Toji anymore.”

“Why should I?” You struggled to compose yourself, wiping away the tears that blurred your vision. “It doesn’t matter—”

“It fucking matters, Y/N!”

“It shouldn’t matter!” Your voice cracked with emotion, your heart pounding painfully against your ribs. “Why should it matter, huh?”

“Because I love you!” His words echoed through the night, raw with emotion that had never been confronted until now. “Because I can’t fucking get over you. Because I’m a fool for you!”

You pushed him away, a surge of anger and hurt rising within you. “H-How dare you,” you choked out, your fists trembling as you struck his chest. “How dare you say that to me when you’re with someone else! You n-never truly loved me, Satoru. Y-You never did!”

“You wanted me to find someone new, Y/N,” his voice cracked with emotion, pained by his own words, “I just did what you asked me to do, even if that wasn’t what I truly wanted.” 

You vehemently denied his assertion in your mind, shaking your head in refusal. “Stop saying that. Just stop. Please.”

He already had his grip on your hand, pulling you closer. “Y/N—”

You jerked your hand away sharply, but then a wave of despair washed over you. “Every time I see you with her, I convince myself that I’m fine with it, that this is what I wanted, what I chose.” Tears welled up in your eyes as you recalled every heartbreak. “I tell myself that I deserve it, that you deserve to be with someone who can make you happier. But then I remember our past…” You paused, closing your eyes to stem the tears. “And then I compare it to your relationship with her now. I can’t help but wonder, why didn’t I receive that kind of love and respect from the beginning? Why did it take me nearly drowning in an ocean for you to realize and try to make things right three years ago?”

His grip on your hand tightened, as if he wanted to hold onto you and never let go, as if he wanted to reassure you with his touch that he was there, listening, understanding, feeling every word you uttered.

“I’m sorry,” he whispered, his voice barely audible amidst the crashing waves and the heavy weight of your emotions. “I’m sorry for everything I did wrong, for every moment I failed to show you the love and respect you deserved, Y/N.”

You hated it. You hated hearing his words now, because it was three years all too late. You had already gone through so much suffering, so much anguish that you didn’t deserve, just because you wanted a happy marriage. Just because you wanted to love and be loved. By him. By the person you married. 

“It d-doesn’t change anything,” you murmured, your voice breaking with sorrow. “I can’t undo the pain, the heartache. I can’t erase the memories.”

“I know,” he replied softly, his eyes filled with remorse. “But let’s try again. Let me try again, Y/N. Please.”

You wanted to believe him, to believe that he meant every word, that he was sincere in his intentions. But the wounds of the past were still fresh, and the memories of betrayal were still lingering in your mind.

“You know what hurts me more?” you asked, “It’s the fact that you didn’t lose your memories of me, but you still ended up falling for her,” you admitted, your voice barely above a whisper.

Satoru’s silence felt like a confirmation to you. Perhaps he had indeed fallen in love with Akemi, and you were the obstacle standing in the way of his complete commitment to her. You were just a relic of his past, a piece that he needed to discard in order to embrace his future with Akemi. It seemed that fate had already decided that you and Satoru would never find happiness together, and this should serve as nothing more than a closure. 

But god be damned, it was tearing you apart. 

You tugged at the necklace around your neck, the pendant bearing half of his heart, and in your trembling hand, you ripped it off. As painful as it was, your next action was to hurl it into the darkness of the lake, discarding the last remnant that linked him to you, watching as it disappeared beneath the surface of the lake with a soft splash.

You know the difference between us, Satoru? You thought silently. I dove into the ocean just to find our wedding ring, but you would never plunge into that lake to retrieve that necklace.

With determined steps, you turned away before he could react, walking away from that place, walking away from him. You resolved that this would be your final encounter with Satoru Gojou in your lifetime, because there was no need for him in your life, just as he no longer needed you in his. You two would remain in the past, a memory best left behind.

This was you letting him go. 

But then, just as you were about to walk away, you heard a faint noise from the darkness behind you—a splash, followed by the sound of another frantic splashing.

Your heart pounded heavily in your chest. You turned back toward the lake, your eyes widening in shock as you saw Satoru thrashing in the water, his arms flailing as he searched desperately for the necklace you had thrown away.

“Satoru, you idiot!” you cried out, your voice filled with disbelief and concern and pain and overwhelming heartache. Without a second thought, you ran back to the cold water, your feet sinking into the soft sand as you waded into the lake. “Satoru, what are you doing?!” you called out again, your heart racing as you reached out to him, your fingers brushing against his arm as he struggled to stay afloat.

“I have to find it,” Satoru gasped, his voice strained with exertion. “I have to find the necklace you threw.”

Your breath caught in your throat as you looked into his eyes, seeing the desperation and determination that burned within them. You knew then that you couldn’t let him risk his life for a piece of jewelry, no matter how sentimental it may be.

“Satoru, please,” you pleaded, your voice trembling with emotion. “It’s not worth it. Let it go—”

But Satoru shook his head, his gaze fixed on the dark waters below. “I have to find it," he insisted, his eyes tearful. “It’s my heart. I gave it to you.”

 I hate you. I hate you. I hate you. 

The tension between you crackled like electricity in the air. In that moment, all of your walls came crashing down, your heart laid bare before the man you had once loved with all your soul.

With tears streaming down your cheeks, you reached out and pulled Satoru into your arms, your lips meeting his in a desperate, longing kiss. It was a kiss filled with years of pent-up emotion, a bittersweet union of love and pain that left you both breathless and raw. Your lips moved together in a tender dance, each kiss a silent plea for forgiveness, for understanding, for a second chance at the love you had lost. It was a kiss that spoke of regrets and what-ifs, of dreams left unfulfilled and promises broken.

For years, you had been strangers, your hearts closed off to each other in an attempt to shield yourselves from the pain of your past. But in that moment, as you clung to each other in the darkness, you couldn’t deny the truth that still lingered between you—that your love for each other had never truly died.

As you finally pulled apart, gasping for air, you looked into Satoru’s eyes, seeing the depth of his pain mirrored in your own. “I hate you,” you whispered, your voice laced with grief and surrender, "so much."

Satoru reached out and brushed a tear from your cheek, his touch gentle and tender. “I hate me, too,” he murmured, his voice thick with emotion, his eyes shining with guilt, “for hurting you.”

You couldn’t erase the past, nor could you predict the future. But as you stood together in the middle of the lake, your hearts entwined once more, you found solace in the simple act of being together, of sharing your pain and your love in the darkness of the night. And as you held each other tight, the gravity of your connection pulled you to kiss him again. 

Once more, you met his lips in a deeper kiss. His lips moved in perfect sync with yours, and the taste of his tongue was met with the familiarity you two shared. It was as if your bodies were moving on its own, and you allowed it to dictate whatever action it desired. Forget everything for now, was all you could think of in your head. In your mind, it was all Satoru. It was the man you love. The man you married. The man you share a child with. 

You were too engrossed with the feeling of his lips that you didn’t even realize he had your legs wrapped around his waist. And with your arms around his neck, you could feel him lift you up, never breaking the kiss as he carried you out of the lake. With each step he took, your kiss only got deeper and deeper. You had never felt such intensity throughout your marriage, and you were intoxicated by the feeling of kissing him again. 

Of feeling his lips around your jawline. Your neck. Your chest. You were gasping on his mouth, had his lips completely enveloped with yours, not realizing you were stumbling inside your cabin, desperate to find somewhere to lay on. 

And before you knew it, the night had played way differently than expected.

Both your wet clothes were on the floor in a tangle of fabric, forgotten in the heat of your passion. And now, with your bare body on top of him. His arms caressed the smooth skin of your back, his lips feathering kisses along your bust. As you moved your hips slowly, you couldn’t stop the moan that escaped your lips. Satoru’s member was warm inside you. Your bodies were tingling from the intensity of your lovemaking in the dimly lit room. And when you pulled away, your eyes were locked in a silent exchange of yearning.

Without a word, Satoru reached out and gently cupped your breast, his touch sending electricity down your spine. You leaned into his touch, your breath coming in shallow gasps as you felt the heat of his body pressing against yours.

Your lips met once more, a tender exploration of each other’s mouths, and he was taking that chance to shift the position you were in. Slowly, almost hesitantly, he began to enter you again. You were whimpering under him, melting into his passionate movements. You have had sex with Satoru multiple times before, but it was never this emotional. It was never this passionate. You could feel the difference with the way he kissed you, with the way he looked at you, with the way he touched you. 

“S-Satoru—!” 

“Mmm… I missed you so fucking much, Y/N.”

And then, finally, you came together in a flurry of hands and lips and skin, your bodies melding into one as you gave yourselves over to the exquisite pleasure of your lovemaking. 

At that exact moment, as you moved together in perfect harmony, you knew that you were home.

— —

When Akemi woke up, she could tell something felt wrong. 

It didn’t help that Satoru was not by her side as she opened her eyes, blinded by the sunlight that peeked through the window. Was he out for a morning run? Or perhaps he was indulging in a leisurely bath? She entertained the idea of joining him, wanting to express her gratitude for his care and support.

Her heart swelled with love for him, despite all the risks and uncertainties. He was her rock, her confidant, her everything. In him, she found solace and strength, and she couldn’t imagine her life without him. Despite the troubles of his past, she felt blessed to have crossed paths with him. She longed for the kind of deep connection and lasting commitment that she saw in others’ marriages, a dream she harbored for her own future. And in Satoru, she saw the perfect partner to share that dream with, to build a family and a life together that she had always yearned for.

Akemi wasn’t ashamed by how smitten she was with him. In fact, she was beginning to have more confidence in her decision to pursue a relationship with him. She just hoped you would understand, that you would eventually let go of the grudge in your heart. At the end of the day, she wasn’t trying to hurt you. She was only trying to pursue her happiness. 

And the exact source of her happiness was someone she endeavored to find that morning. She put on a robe and searched every room in the cabin, calling out for his name, wondering why she couldn’t hear his voice. 

With no response forthcoming, Akemi decided to exit the cabin in search of Satoru. Assuming he had likely been with Suguru all night, she scanned the vicinity, expecting to spot his tall, white-haired figure. Yet, after several minutes of fruitless searching, she couldn’t find him and instead, encountered a hotel staff member. That was when she decided to finally inquire about his whereabouts.

“Excuse me,” she began, halting the staff member’s stride, “Have you seen my boyfriend? He’s tall, with white hair and blue eyes.”

“Ah, Mr. Gojou?” the hotel staff responded, scratching her head as realization dawned. She then gestured toward the last place Akemi wished him to be. “Um, I think he’s in there.”

Akemi’s heart raced as if she had seen a ghost. Her complexion drained of color, her heart pounding in her chest as she realized that the cabin she had been directed to was yours. And in a twist of fate, just as she stood there in shock, the man she loved emerged from the cabin, equally wide-eyed.

“‘Kemi…” he began, frozen in place, “Let’s talk first—”

But she cut him off with a scoff. Her hands trembled with a tumult of emotions—anger, pain, and betrayal—threatening to overwhelm her. She was on the verge of collapse, her mind reeling with questions. Was he going to explain his actions? No, there was only one question that demanded an answer.

“Did you… did you do it?” she asked through gritted teeth, her voice laced with accusation.

Satoru didn’t need to respond. As Akemi pushed the door open, her worst fears were confirmed as she saw you standing behind him, draped in nothing but a blanket. Tears welled in her eyes, and before she could think, her body reacted, her hand connecting with Gojou’s cheek in a resounding slap.

“You never changed!” she cried out, her voice cracking with anguish. “You’re still a cheater!”

Satoru struggled to deflect each fist she hurled at him, but her rage and despair overwhelmed any attempt to reason with her. She was consumed by her pain and the looming betrayal she anticipated, unable to comprehend that her worst fears were coming true before her eyes.

“‘Kemi, please,” Satoru pleaded in vain.

“...Akemi, I'm sorry,” you interjected, your voice heavy with remorse as you wiped your tears. “It’s not his fault. It’s mine.”

Upon hearing your words, Akemi erupted. She disregarded your friendship, cast aside your shared memories, and denied that she had ever considered you a friend. Her tear-filled eyes bore into you with accusation. “Y-You,” she began, her voice choking with sobs, “You’re a hypocrite, Y/N!”

You remained silent, absorbing her words.

Akemi pressed on with her onslaught. “You’re a hypocrite! You’ve become the person you despised the most when you were married,” she accused, recalling the anguish you endured during Gojou’s affair. “You’re no better than Sera! And that’s why you’re miserable, and you’ll forever be miserable! If this is your way of getting back at me,” she paused, betrayed by the anguish in her voice, “Then jokes on you, because Satoru will never be faithful to you. He’ll keep cheating on you, just like he did now with me! You two belong in that cycle!”

She fled before she could hear your response, but Satoru’s whispered apology lingered in the air, unclear of who its intended recipient was. At that moment, she didn’t care anymore. She raced back to her cabin, tears streaming down her face as she hastily packed her belongings.

She moved mechanically, tossing her belongings into her luggage while grappling with the overwhelming pain of his infidelity. Try as she might to focus on the task at hand, her tears flowed freely, and she surrendered to her grief, cradling her face in her hands.

Amidst her anguish, she couldn’t ignore the escalating pain in her pelvic region, a physical echo of the agony in her heart. Each sob seemed to intensify both sensations, leaving her feeling utterly shattered.

With that confrontation, Satoru faced a pivotal choice: to stay with you or to pursue Akemi. 

While Akemi had anticipated that he might choose you, she was taken aback when she swung the door open,

bags in hand, 

only to find Satoru Gojou standing on her doorstep.

[ms-demeanor]

Hi! My employer's workplace wellness program was recently revamped, and I'm trying to assess whether it's slid into the nonsense side of wellness-world. Specifically, there's a webinar being offered by a guy named Abra Pappa on using an "anti-inflammatory diet" to "battle against chronic diseases… including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and even certain cancers." This sounds… sketchy to me, but I know you have both expertise in nutrition and a strong bullshit detector, so wanted to ask what you make of it.

Okay long story short never trust anyone who got their degree from a university that started off as a school for chiropractors.

Abra Pappa got her MS in Functional Medicine and Human Nutrition after getting a BA in Theater; I checked the requirements for that degree and the school's whole catalogue is throwing red flags but what's throwing the most red flags for me is that if I wanted to get a degree in nutrition from an ACEND accredited program I'd need to take a hell of a lot more than one bio class, one anatomy OR one physiology class, one medical terminology class, one nutrition class, and one biochemistry class in order to get into a master's program.

It's funny because she went from a BA in theater arts to an MS in Functional Nutrition and Human Nutrition and I've been trying to go from a BA in Theater Arts to an MS in nutrition and *aside* from the whole private school costs thing one of the major barriers is that I'd basically need to re-do all of my undergrad to get in a lot of chemistry, some calculus, and MANY nutrition classes before I qualified for a Master's program. But based on the program she took I'm only one medical terminology and one biochemistry class away from a Master's program instead of more like ten to fifteen classes (primarily in nutrition, chemistry, and physiology) away.

Anyway she says she's a Licensed Dietician Nutritionist. There are some states that allow LDN certification, New York is one of those states. *BUT* to be an LDN in New York you have to

Complete a program in dietetics-nutrition that culminates in a bachelor’s degree that qualifies for certification in dietetics-nutrition or has been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE).[Note: CADE is now ACEND] The program must include at least 45 semester hours of coursework in dietetics/nutrition and must include at least 20 semester hours of coursework in the area of human biological sciences and social and behavioral sciences

Pappa went to the University of Western States in Oregon, and the only ACEND accredited school in Oregon is at OSU, so if she's an LDN it's from someplace that isn't New York, where she lives and works.

She also claims to be a CNS, a Certified Nutrition Specialist, but in order to qualify for THAT you need to have an MS with some pretty rigorous coursework

And this is what the school required for her MS program:

And given that she didn't have a science degree for undergrad it seems pretty likely that she wasn't doing anything close to what an undergrad nutrition program looks like:

For the record, here are the MS requirements for an MS in nutrition with a health and wellness emphasis at that same school:

In order to get accepted to the MS in nutrition program in that school you either need to have a BS in nutrition or a BS in biology or chemistry and take all the undergrad level nutrition requirements ON TOP OF that BS.

I don't think that a theater degree and an MS from a woo-y correspondence school really count, even if you do pay $45k for your diploma.

If you go look at the requirements for any ACEND accredited school and compare them to the MS program from University of Western States it leaves UWS looking pretty shitty in comparison. Like, nowhere in her requirements is there a statistics class! Stats is required even for an associate transfer certificate in nutrition! EVEN AT THE 2-YEAR LEVEL FOR REAL NUTRITION DEGREES YOU HAVE TO DO STATS AND SHE DIDN'T HAVE TO TAKE A SINGLE STATS CLASS FOR HER MS. You will note that the cal poly MS program has one entire MS-Level class on vitamin metabolism and one entire MS-Level class on mineral metabolism for any of the three MS in Nutrition emphasis courses; her school required neither.

This shit makes me want to climb the walls.

I'm just going to start calling myself a nutritionist. California will let anyone call themselves a nutritionist, there are absolutely zero protections on that term and I can get myself a piece of paper for like three hundred dollars from a diploma mill that has some kind of bullshit accreditation.

Here are the programmatic accreditations her school has:

Compare with the Cal Poly programmatic accreditations (I cite cal poly a bunch because it was the program I was hoping to get into eventually so I researched it the most; that's where I got my BA, go broncos):

Note that the website for her school is listed with the department of education as wschiro.com because it was called Western States Chiropractic College until 2010.

Every time i dig into something like this it makes me want to stare into space for hours. No wonder college students are getting fucked on their loans and going to bullshit schools. No wonder everything is a scam these days. People bitch about credentialism but you know what maybe this lady is a CNS; sure, for some people that requires passing board certification tests, getting 1000 hours of clinical supervision, and becoming a Nurse Practitioner with real actual nutrition study from a solid program, but for other people it requires zero understanding of statistics, a theater degree, and three *whole* units of anatomy. Maybe she clears the bar on that one! She doesn't have the qualifications for an LDN in New York, she's not an RDN because she sure as fuck didn't take the classes required for a *VERY SERIOUSLY* protected title, but maybe you can be a CNS with an online diploma from the western states chiropractic college.

I fucking hate everything.

You know the whole reason I wanted to get a degree in nutrition was to yell about shit like this online, but fuck it. Fuck it, I'm a nutrition-isht because i live in california and I can say I am and who's going to check? Who's going to look up whether I took classes in public health or anatomy or the metabolism of micronutrients before they hire me to do corporate seminars on healing your relationship to food? I am legally allowed to do that so I might as well, right? If all I have to do is be charismatic and convincing I'm pretty sure I've got that down, actually, so who's going to check?

Nobody! Nobody is going to check and everything is a scam and I hate everything.

ANYWAY

The relationship between nutrition and inflammation and the relationship between chronic disease and inflammation are two different, complicated things that are difficult to point at and say definitively what the connections are.

I am of the opinion that any time you're getting deep into things like an anti-inflammatory, ketogenic, or PH-Balancing diet without a specific condition that calls for the avoidance of certain foods for very clearly scientifically reported reasons, you're dealing with a woo-woo biohacker who's looking to sell a diet plan.

The thing about nutrition science is that it seems like for most people the "answers" are pretty basic: eat enough food, get enough macro and micronutrients, eat a variety of food, avoid processed meats, try to eat more fruits and vegetables, get enough water, and stay as active as possible NOT for weight loss reasons but for metabolic health and joint/muscle maintenance. It's really, really, hard to sell that though, which is how you get people like Abra Pappa in 2013 writing out this bugfuck "Food and mood" handout with a midday snack that is so bonkers in the way the calories are distributed that I'm sitting down and doing math about it (it looks like about a third of the calories that day are supposed to come from the mid afternoon spinach, mint, cocoa nib, and coconut milk smoothie which is, as I said, bugfuck nuts).

It's hard to sell "please eat more fruits and vegetables, which is difficult because actually most places don't grow enough vegetables for the population's nutrition needs and it's cheaper to eat grains and industrially produced meat than it is to eat five cups of vegetables that you need to prepare daily and also maybe skip the bacon" but it's much easier to sell "five anti-inflammatory superfood milkshakes that will fill your belly and fight cancer" because it's packaging nutrition as a product and not as a massive systemic issue that happens to have very specific requirements for a large number of individuals who *do* happen to have disorders that are based on nutrition and inflammation (celiac disease! I've got one of them! Eating the wrong foods definitely causes inflammation in my body as the result of an autoimmune disorder! but that doesn't mean that the things that are inflammatory for me are inflammatory for everyone!)

Anyway I think like about 97% of workplace wellness programs are largely bullshit based, or at least import bullshit a lot of the time, and nutrition is a science that has, just, so much bullshit in and around it.

So I would take anything they say with a grain of salt, and hopefully less than 255% of your RDV of saturated fat (seriously that meal plan is ludicrous).

Side note: there is a subset of nutrition people who looked at the way that we got fat wrong in the 80s and flipped it and reversed it and went "actually you can have as much fat of any kind that you want as long as it is natural and you will have no issues" and this is how you end up with people on 100% natural clean keto diets who have cholesterol levels over 600. Abra Pappa recommends "clean/natural" eating and has taken continuing education on keto and has a recipe for a single-serving smoothie that calls for 8oz of coconut milk I think she's very much in the "'good' fat truther" camp (or at least she was in 2013 which is maybe why New York has a requirement for people to have some kind of nutrition certification for giving out nutrition advice and maybe she should have done that because she didn't even go to her bullshit "grad school" until 2017).

(We DID get fat wrong in the 80s and total avoidance of all fats is bad for you and there are 'good' fats that you should eat and everybody needs to eat some level of fat for proper nutrient absorption but even if you're only getting fat from nuts and avocados that's not going to prevent your arteries from forming plaques if you're having nearly triple the recommended daily value of saturated fat as part of your afternoon snack)

[sagan-starstuff]

XF Meta: Scully's Medical Training Timeline

At the request of @randomfoggytiger, I wanted to do my damnedest to make Scully's education and training timeline make even a little sense. I'm a physician (specifically a specialist in adult infectious diseases), and it's fairly clear to me that CC and Co probably didn't actually talk to any doctors about how medical training works. Love my girl - I'm a Scully Effect kid, I don't think I'd be a doctor at all if it weren't for the inspiration of Dana Scully. But her timeline is...iffy at best.

Disclaimer: My medical school and post-med school training occurred from 2009-2018, Scully's occurred in the 1980's-90's. From what I can tell, the durations of many residencies and fellowships don't seem to have changed much, but I can't say that for certainty for all programs at all institutions. I am also from the US, so I cannot speak to medical training in other countries.

Our girl was born in 1964, and so unless she skipped a grade (which some schools would do if students were classified as "gifted" or otherwise exceptional, she would have graduated from high school at age 18 in 1982 and went straight to college. Let's assume she didn't skip a grade, for the sake of argument.

You have to have a Bachelor's degree to apply to medical school. These degrees typically take 4 years, though if someone arrives at college with credits from dual-enrollment high school classes or AP exam credits OR if they take summer classes some people can complete them in 3 years. I don't know what the availability of dual enrollment or AP classes was like in the early 80's (and like CC, I'm too lazy to do the research to find out), so we can assume that Scully graduated from college in 1986.

Medical school is 4 years long - no shortening this at that point in time, and even now in almost all cases. So that puts medical school graduation in 1990 IF she's following a traditional timeline and went straight from college to medical school.

Now, if someone is going to go into practice they have to do a residency in at least one of a variety of specialties (Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Surgery, etc.) in order to be board certified and practice independently. There are very, very few job options in clinical medicine if you DON'T do a residency, so if you want to practice, you have to do it. Residencies can be anywhere from 3-5 years, depending on the specialty. You can also further subspecialize after a residency by doing one or more fellowships (typically 1-3 years depending on the fellowship) before sitting for your board certification exams and starting independent practice. For example - after medical school I did a 3-year residency in adult internal medicine, then a 2 year fellowship in adult infectious diseases to be eligible to sit for the boards and enter my specialty, so 5 years further training after medical school before I could get a job, get board certified, and practice.

Scully is a forensic pathologist. She would have had to do a 3 or 4 year pathology residency (both were options at the time) followed by a 1 year forensic pathology fellowship. You CANNOT perform autopsies right out of medical school, if you are going to be a forensic pathologist you HAVE to do this training. So, following a traditional timeline this puts her as having completed forensic pathology training in 1994 or 1995. Pilot starts March 7th, 1992, so this is loooooong after she's canonically already an FBI agent and teaching at the academy.

But our girl's a smart cookie, so let's take a little leeway with her timeline. Let's say she skipped a grade some time in K-12. This puts high school graduation in 1981. Let's say she ALSO graduates with a bunch of AP credit and does summer semesters and finishes her undergraduate degree in Physics in 3 years. This puts her as starting medical school in 1984, with graduation in 1988. She'd still need to do that pathology residency and forensic pathology fellowship - let's assume a 3 year residency, then 1 year fellowship, so she'd finish training in 1992.

Still doesn't fit.

Let's go totally off the rails here - we know Scully was recruited out of medical school to the FBI, so she didn't do a traditional residency at all - UNLESS the FBI has an internal forensic pathology residency. It would HAVE to be accelerated in some way - some programs combine residency and fellowship by giving less elective time and more focus to the fellowship content. It's not common but they exist. Let's say in theory the FBI has an accelerated forensic pathology residency that takes 3 years, in addition to the 20 weeks of the FBI academy training. This has her finishing residency AND FBI academy training some time in 1991.

This is the ONLY way she could have finished forensic pathology training AND the FBI academy with enough time to be a fully certified forensic pathologist and FBI agent with some time left to teach at the FBI academy before being assigned to the X-Files on March 7th, 1992.

I can suspend my disbelief enough to be on board with this. You'd have to be pretty damned special, which we know she is, to get recruited out of medical school by the FBI. Maybe they even developed the accelerated combined residency/fellowship just for her! She's Dana Katherine Motherf***ing Scully, people!

Now, IWTB is where things get REALLY unbelievable. (Disclaimer: I have not watched IWTB since seeing it in theaters in 2008. I'll get around to rewatching it someday soon. Probably with a bottle of wine. Not a glass. A bottle.)

Mulder and Scully go on the run in 2002. We don't know how long they were in the wind, but by 2008, she's been allowed to resume a career and is practicing at Our Lady of Sorrows. Clearly in pediatrics - but general pediatricians sure as hell don't do stem cell transplants, so she'd almost certainly have to be a pediatric oncologist. We aren't told what her specialty is specifically, but that's what she'd have to be to do a stem cell transplant.

(That scene in the OR isn't even what stem cell transplants LOOK LIKE but that's a rant for another day, back to my point.)

MEDICAL BOARDS DON'T JUST LET YOU CHANGE YOUR SPECIALTY FOR FUNSIES.

(Deep breaths. Serenity now. Ok, let's do this.)

Scully would have had to do an ENTIRELY NEW residency AND fellowship in order to practice as a pediatric oncologist. Pediatrics residency is 3 years long. Pediatric Hematology/Oncology fellowship is 3 years long. In order for this to be even remotely possible, she would have had to START residency in 2002 to finish fellowship by 2008 and start her job at Our Lady of Sorrows.

And she's a former FBI agent harboring a known felon, on the run from government officials and alien hybrids who want her and Mulder dead.

There is absolutely no way even the smallest, most hard-up pediatric residency program is going to accept her with that hanging over her head. I'm not going to get into all the details of how rigorous and stressful the post-medical school residency application and match process is, but even if she didn't apply until she KNEW it was safe to come out from underground, she'd still have to explain a multi-year gap in her resume/CV to the program directors. Multi-year gaps in career and training without a reasonable explanation like a medical issue, time off to care for an ailing family member, time off for research, time away in a different, legitimate career are NOT looked on kindly when applying for residency positions. She would have a HELL of a time getting into a totally different residency.

It could happen - if anyone could do it, she could. But there's absolutely no way there's enough time for her to complete that training by 2008.

"But sagan-starstuff, it's CC, it's X-Files, we know there was no show bible and no one but the fans gave a shit about continuity or things making sense, there's no logic just vibes"

I KNOW, OK. I KNOW. And I love this insane, beautiful masterpiece anyway. I love exploring the possibilities of how and when it all could have happened with my fellow insane Philes who work so hard to glean meaning and order from this perfect mess of a show.

But couldn't CC have talked to one (1) doctor about what medical training is like at some point between 1993 and 2018? Just one?

Anyway. Yeah. That's my meta. Scully's training timeline makes no goddamned sense. Compels me, though.

@randomfoggytiger, this is for you. Honorable mention to @precedex-files who I ranted about this with in messages a while back.

[willowsallen]

counseling 101: the background.

hi everybody! my name is riley, and i'm a substance use counselor. i've worked in both inpatient and outpatient, i've been in this field since i was 19 and have been professionally working for 2 years. i'm currently in grad school for clinical social work, pursuing my lsw and my clinical licensure (lcsw). i wanted to write a guide on what it "means" to be a counselor! i will be discussing the specifics of a substance use counselor in another post. (it will be linked below.)

disclaimer:

do not take this as professional advice for all counselors, therapists, psychologists, or social workers. this is my background, my information, my experiences, and my specific expertise. this will include the basics of schooling, training, certifications, frequently asked questions, and things you might not realize, as it all pertains to me! what works for my patients and i may not work for you, so be mindful this is not a "my way is correct and your therapist is wrong," as i believe in the pct model of meeting everybody where they're at.

even counselors at my exact experience level and education level may do things differently than me, and that's perfectly fine! i just wanted to write this to give some insight if you're interested in writing a character who is a therapist, or who goes to therapy. or if you're just interested in general! i could give reminders upon reminders but i just need to say that this is all my thoughts and path in life! this is not the end all, be all. and with that, let's get started. (if you have further questions or need something clarified, please feel free to reach out but just for clarification: i'm not your therapist, i'm not being paid for this, please don't trauma dump, and always remember i'm a human just like you!)

education:

your education is based a lot on your "experience" (which i'll talk about next) and i know that doesn't make sense but just stick with me! the very basics of what you need is a bachelor's in a "social work" setting. which includes, but is not limited to (because i forget): psychology, social work, sociology, criminology. these are the foundations for your specific field of work! i'll just be talking about counseling in general, or about substance use, as i am unaware of the other jobs / fields you can get with different degrees.

if you're trying to get a "good" job (livable wage) i would suggest getting a master's degree in your field of work. though, i will say, you can get lucky and survive off of your bachelor's (like i currently am!) but i would strongly, strongly encourage further education which will lead into certifications and licensure, and that will cement your place in the field and open up the job field entirely. with a bachelor's, they often want anywhere from 1-5 years of experience. with a master's, many places will take you with 0 years of experience, up to 5 years, depending on your field and what the company wants.

i currently have my bachelor's in psychology. psychology is such a broad degree that unless you're specifically going to be a clinical psychologist or gain your doctorate, i would choose another field. i didn't know i wanted substance use specifically until i was 19, which i'll speak about in experience, but if i did not choose the substance use field, i would most definitely would have had to immediately get a master's and be licensed in order to receive well paying jobs with just a psychology degree.

experience:

you don't need a master's to get a job in this field, but you do need experience (there will be places that take bachelor's with little to no experience, but will pay you next to nothing). the best thing to do is find an internship! i think the easiest way will be through your school, and when you're picking one of the aforementioned degrees, it should be an option when picking out classes - many times, universities have people that specifically work with internships.

when i was getting my bachelor's degree, it was my first semester and i was 19 when i was offered to interview for an internship through my school. i got accepted on the spot and was apart of it even after i got my "credit" for the semester and continued for two years! i worked in houseless shelters in my county and was running daily men and women's groups, 2:1 sessions (2 counselors to 1 resident), debrief sessions with the other interns, and supplying a resource booth for the residents.

without this internship, i truly and wholeheartedly believe i would not have gotten any job in this field. it's a dog-eat-dog out there in the realm of psychology (which includes all those fields above) and i truly got lucky to get my start this way. if you don't have the time, motivation, or money to gain a master's, i would highly suggest getting involved in internships as soon as possible in order to get those years of experience!

certifications:

this has a wide range of things! i can only speak to what i've received, and what i know about. this also includes specific training to the sud field, but i won't go in depth about it until the next post i do! the certification i will always need is my cpr. i know that sounds silly, but working with people, in general, i feel like everybody that is able to should receive their cpr certificate!

now, with a bachelor's, they're not really expecting you to have anything else. but! you can. i currently have my milieu certification. which sounds fancy but it just means i'm certified in "psychotherapy in which the patient's social environment is controlled or manipulated with a view to preventing self-destructive behavior." i could've explained it myself, but google does wonders and makes me sound smart! i got this through my internship. it was required and within the first two weeks, i went through trainings and seminars to receive the certificate.

another thing i can receive with only a bachelor's (that's specific to sud) is my cadc certification. it stands for certified alcohol drug counselor. in order to do this, you'll need supervision hours from a clinical / licensed or otherwise appropriate supervisor or director. once i receive upwards of 300 hours of documented supervision, i can take my cadc exam and become certified. this can also enhance what jobs are available to me because many jobs ask for this certification in place of a clinical license (some don't, but you know... some do!)

currently, i'm working on my master's and may potentially work towards my cadc along the way, but once i receive my master's i can get my caadc, which is certified advanced alcohol drug counselor. it's just more hours and an exam! not sure which path i'll take yet because grad school is killing me, but those are what's offered in my field and what i'm interested in! of course there's other certifications involved, but that's for you to decide.

licenses:

now comes the fun part. again, what license you want or go for is specific to your field. there's a ton of counseling licenses, but the main ones that are down my path are lpc (licensed professional counselor), lsw (licensed social worker), and lcsw (licensed clinical social worker). so let me explain a little bit about each of them, and what i'm personally doing!

lpc: licensed professional counselors "are trained to offer assessment, therapeutic interventions, consultation, program evaluation and follow-up services in a variety of settings including schools, hospitals, community agencies, private practices, religious centers, group homes and more. lpc's can also independently practice counseling, meaning they can establish or join a private practice and directly bill insurance companies or receive cash for counseling services." can: work independently, diagnose mental health conditions, and supervise for clinical hours. this license is primarily for direct mental health care.

lsw: licensed social workers can "render services that rely on a special knowledge of therapeutic techniques, human personalities, and social resources. this includes: helping people become socially adjusted as individuals and members of a family or community, you cannot work independently; you must work in the affiliation of an agency or social work service provider." cannot: work independently or diagnose mental health conditions.

lcsw: licensed clinical social workers "support people through various challenges by providing general counseling services, crisis intervention, mental health therapies, substance use support, and other key services. lcsw's may also supervise the work of lsw's. they may work in schools, hospitals, elderly care facilities, private practices, and even the courtroom—social workers are often called upon as witnesses in court cases. the main thing to remember is that this license gives them freedom and responsibility to make independent decisions about diagnosis and treatment plans." can: work independently, diagnose mental health conditions and supervise for clinical hours.

difference between lpc and lcsw: though both are similar in their ability to work independently, diagnose mental health conditions, and supervise for clinical hours, there is one main distinction between the two. lpc's are more patient focused and lcsw's utilize a patient's entire life. to put it, well... better, i've turned to google! lpc's "focus on helping clients with specific issues, such as mental health diagnoses, substance use, or behavioral issues. they also can specialize in different types of counseling, including substance use or marriage and family counseling." whereas lcsw's "assist their clients with finding and accessing resources that promote a client’s quality of life and may be involved in the legislative process dictating these services. social worker training usually includes counseling techniques and training, best practices, and finding resources for clients."

general overview:

so, with a bachelor's and no cadc or license, what can i do? well! i counsel<3 i speak to my patients about their substance use, i speak to them about their family, i conduct family sessions, i delve into their trauma, i utilize cbt, pct, mi, and grounding techniques. i run daily groups with my caseload, i run bi weekly groups for the entire community, and i initially assess them for proper level of care. i submit asam's, prepare treatment plans and update them weekly, and work with them on their goals while in and outside of treatment. all of this will be spoken about further in my sud counseling guide.

a day-in-the-life timeline looks like: clock in, check any updates / notes on my patients, go to treatment team with the clinical staff / case management / nursing and doctors (which pertains to the level of care my rehab is - you will not always have this, dependent on inpatient or outpatient and other factors), i run my daily group for an hour with my patients, i do group notes for them, i have my lunch, if i have that afternoon group for the whole community i run it, then i fit in any individual sessions or initial assessments that i need, i complete all progress notes for the day, and i clock out. in between, i handle patient crisis', ama's, behavioral issues, and general questions.

modalities:

what are modalities? "modalities are approaches or methods that a therapist will use to help you reach your goals. modalities fall into broad categories, such as cognitive and behavioral, somatic (body awareness), experiential (play or art therapy), and more." these vary by counselor-to-counselor. this is what works for the counselor and the patient and instead of including the quadrillions of therapy modalities, i'll just talk about the ones i use the most! (also side note that i believe most therapists, within reason, should be utilizing pct and mi but... that's a soapbox for another day). i'll be talking more about why i use - these in relation to sud - in my other post.

cognitive behavioral therapy (cbt):

i want to start this off by saying that cbt is very useful in the beginning stages of therapy! oftentimes, people utilize dbt or somatic therapy after they've "accomplished" cbt. i employ cbt due to, more often than not, patients not having a solid foundation for recovery or changing their ways. so what is cbt?

"cbt is a psycho-social intervention that aims to reduce symptoms of various mental health conditions, primarily depression and anxiety disorders. cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most effective means of treatment for substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders." in a shorter sense: i use cbt in order to "change" the way somebody thinks.

things that are apart of cbt therapy (and can be incorporated in other forms of therapy) include cognitive distortions, grounding techniques, actively engaging in combatting their automatic negative thoughts (ant's), and encompassing pct and mi in order for the patient to understand why they need to change their thoughts / actions, how they can change them, and the results of changing them. this will go more in depth in my sud post!

patient centered therapy (pct):

pct isn't necessarily for everybody, as many patients may have difficulty even coming up with what their issues are or potential solutions. but by utilizing pct, counselors may be able to support a patient to an "answer" or realization without giving them the answer - i find it beneficial to voice my issues and concerns so i'm able to form my own solution even without my friends saying anything! it's very limited involvement from the counselor as far as "telling them" what's wrong and giving them "choices" to fix it.

"during person-centered therapy, a therapist acts as a compassionate facilitator, listening without judgment and acknowledging the client’s experience without shifting the conversation in another direction. the therapist is there to encourage and support the client without interrupting or interfering with their process of self-discovery, as they uncover what hurts and what is needed to repair it."

pct is really important, in my opinion, because it allows patient the autonomy to make decisions for themselves, while also giving them support. a counselor is supposed to help, not be a brick wall, so as much as the patient is allowed to freely roam through their thoughts and feelings, i've found a nice balance between pct and cbt when the patient may not have a specific answer or understanding for themselves.

motivational interviewing (mi):

"mi is a guiding style of communication, that sits between following (good listening) and directing (giving information and advice). it's designed to empower people to change by drawing out their own meaning, importance and capacity for change. mi is based on a respectful and curious way of being with people that facilitates the natural process of change and honors client autonomy."

when i speak about "guiding" a patient to a different way of thought, or to a "solution", mi is what i'm talking about. my entire approach to counseling is not to give them the answer, because many times they may know the "right" thing to do (stay away from drugs - duh, not explode in anger, not cut people off, etc.) but allowing them this space to speak freely so i can ask them questions for clarification, let them know somebody is listening to them, and building up that therapeutic relationship is the entire point for me.

mi is where the trifecta of these modalities lays. i can utilize cbt in an effort to change their mindset or offer new ideas or "reasons" why they may think / act like that, as well as incorporating pct so that they can come to the realization themselves! it's all about balance and which modality is right for that exact moment, for that patient. it also allows me to be entirely present in the conversation. i often find myself dissociating in my day-to-day life, as many people do, but by using mi, i have to listen in order to ask questions or repeat what they said back to them. it's beneficial to all!

the end:

thank you so much for reading this! i know this was just the basics, but if you want to write a character who's a therapist or who's going to one, i hope this helps beef up that background for you! again, this is specific to me and my sud field, and there's a million other certifications and licenses for general counselors.

substance use disorder counseling post. (will update when post is done).

[shmowder]

Hi it’s immune reader anon back again! Here to submit my Patho oc i actually have two Patho self inserts but for privacy reasons not submitting either of my self indulgent sillies :D so please accept my offer of the third Patho character I’ve made

The basic stuff is that Her name is Franziska Novikov, her age is a good question as she doesn’t have a birth certificate her parents would only accept a son so they refused to register her at all! Treating her like a shameful secret who needed to prove she deserved to even be alive at all but she’s close in age to Dankovsky possibly a year or two older even. Job/Credentials: she mostly wanders town from town trying to sell snake oil cures so basically she’s an MLM girlie who might also lit your house on fire for fun! If you call her out on being a snake oil salesman

Healer, Bound, or NPC?: I imagine her more so working as a bound but her as a healer would be insane as she straight up has no clue what she’s doing so she just gaslights all the town leaders into thinking shes qualified for this situation. Dankovsky absolutely hates her and at any turn tries to expose her for being a scam artist to everyone unfortunately nobody wants to listen to the capital dandy. she is one but damn let the girlboss scam people bachelor (bachelor stop the girlboss immediately!) Nevermind she’s a healer now…

She only gets involved in the events of the game because she views this as another town to pass through, sell her miracle cure for an over charged price then depart with her riches only to get stuck in a situation where people genuinely believe she is a qualified health professional and now she’s gotta deal with the plague, all the while getting increasingly more and more paranoid which leads to setting fires compulsively in order to ease off the stress… she refuses to believe in any of the more mystic things at play constantly scoffing at the mistresses claims as if she lies for personal gain then everyone else is as well! She projects her own guilt of her lies at everyone else…even when the proof is right in front of her she simply refuses to acknowledge its existence due to her own lies. She doesn’t make any friends for the most part at most she has respectful conversations with Maria and aglaya but they are not friends at all but maybe in another world Franziska would have loved to be friends…but not in this life, she’s actively hostile to everyone else but gives the occasional nice interaction to Clara and yulia on rare occasions. Her interactions with Aglaya and yulia would absolutely have some queer subtext to them as Franziska is a repressed lesbian so deep in the closet she’s found the Bermuda Triangle.

Her ending unsurprisingly doesn’t end with her curing the plague no instead she gets the town wiped off the map completely! Not to mention before this she takes it upon herself to burn both Dankovsky and burakh’s research as she truly believes that if she can’t claim the fame and fortune from creating a cure then nobody should!, her view of life is distorted she only views her existence as one to be proven she has to get fame! Show everyone she deserves to live but in the quest of the broken girls, she dooms the town not out of misplaced good intentions she does it out of selfish desires fueled by an utter obsession to prove herself….she sacrifices all of the damn town leaving only her and the other three healers left…she’s absolutely going to go back to the capital and get executed for her crimes…she’s an absolute awful person but seeing what led to her acting so cruel is tragic I love my evil tragic daughter so much!

That evil tragic lesbian daughter sounds like she'd fit in with our already colourful cast just fine!

A 31 girlboss con-woman who gets people to sign up for her MLM snake oil pyramid scam.

And her having a slight soft spot to Clare is so precious, especially since Clara forces people to tell the truth with her magic sometimes. By all definitions she should be an conman's nightmare yet this fine lady is fistbumping her on the street before giving her a piece of old candy or two.

Any character that adds to the misery and frustration of Dankovsky has a special place in my heart, the Capital dandy being forced to come to terms with how the real world works and that your actual qualifications do not matter as long as you have high enough charisma to convince people snake oil is a viable substitute for antibiotics.

I see Anna Angel falling for her scams on multiple occasions, because Anna already gets scammed like twice ingame canon. Maybe even Peter who just drinks the snake oil? But then you'll have a very vengeful pissed off Andrey on her trail. Oh! Katerina is definitely falling for her scams, much like she fell for the rat prophet ones.

God I love a repressed lesbian who's so deep in the closet she discovered Narnia. Especially her talking with Yulia, Aglaya and Maria. The lesbian icons of the century.

When you mentioned fire and her wiping the town off the map, one idea came to mind. Fire technically eradicates the plague right? She might have set them off to vent stress but indirectly she "cured" these buildings from the plague.

So what if in a last ditch to not be exposed as a fake healer, she pretends that the only way to cure the town is to set it whole ablaze. After burning Daniil and Artemy's research so there is no other alternative.

[thenationaltreasuregazette]

Does Ben Gates have Ph.D?

It depends who you ask.

The textual evidence in the first National Treasure movie suggests no. (Or at least doesn’t present direct evidence for yes.)

As we discussed in the Navy article, the first film lists Ben’s education as follows:

degree in American history from Georgetown

degree in mechanical engineering at MIT

Navy ROTC, Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center

Like I argue there, my instinctual reaction is that the degrees are read in order of acquisition. That’s just the most common way to read them, especially when you’re constructing the history of a person, be that on a resume or an FBI profile.

That would suggest that American history a bachelor’s degree and mechanical engineering is a masters.

But wait there's more! Text, drafts, titles, and headcanons below!

As I point out:

There’s also the difference between a bachelor’s and masters’ degree to consider. The higher you get in higher ed, the more specific you get. A bachelor’s in American history would give Ben the greatest breadth of study, and the freedom to explore any and all topics he was interested in. A masters’ degree in the same field would ask him to zero in on a topic, perhaps more than he’d want to. Likewise, I think that depth over breadth would benefit him in his engineering degree. That way he could focus in on the areas most relevant to him and treasure hunting.

It’s also plausible to read this list in reverse order. That would suggest Ben got a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering (perhaps in an attempt to get Patrick off his back by making it appear he was not directly pursuing treasure hunting?) and then master’s or doctorate in American history.

While this is completely possible, I don’t consider it as likely based on the way it’s presented in the movie. The inclusion of the Navy stuff last makes it sound like Ben is progressively narrowing his field of study as he hones in on his Charlotte-was-a-ship theory. He starts with a broad foundation in American history, then proceeds on to the more specialized technical skills once he realizes the ship is lost/sunk and he’ll need them.

I also think it squares with Ben’s personality and interests. I just

don’t see Ben putting off the history degree. It’s his real passion, and there’s always the risk that he wouldn’t get to go back for a second degree for any number of reasons.

That said, the 2003 script does make it clear that in that version Ben does have a Ph.D in history.

When the treasure hunt seems to be at a Declaration of Independence-induced halt early on, Ian says

IAN You have your PhD in History. Maybe you can teach high school history.

The National Treasure Wiki lists Ben’s education history as:

Ben went on to receive a Bachelors degree in archeology and cryptology at the University of Philadelphia, a Masters degree in mechanical engineering degree from MIT and a Doctorate in American History from Georgetown University. While in Georgetown, Ben also enlisted in the US Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps for the next four years and received official certification from their Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center before continuing the six generation family tradition of treasure hunting. 

But I don’t see a source for this, so take it as you will.

Ben having a degree in archeology and cryptology seems important for the FBI to mention in their profile of him. Also if he went to the University of Philadelphia that seems relevant to the Philadelphia foot chase? But it’s Ian and crew who seem to be familiar with the streets. Ben doesn’t try to lead them anywhere tricky or clever that would suggest he’s familiar with the area. Even Abigail and Riley go to the more Philadelphia-specific location of Reading Terminal Market than Ben, who seems to be running toward any random place he might be able to hide or escape.

Titles

There’s also the matter of how he’s addressed.

In the first film, the only time anyone calls Ben by a title is when he’s being arresting him in Philadelphia.

SADUSKY Hello, Mr Gates. AGENT JOHNSON Mr Gates, face your father's car and put your hands behind your back, please.

The rest of the time he’s simply “Ben” to his friends and “Gates” to his enemies.

Now, not everyone with a Ph.D uses the title “Dr.” Not using it would fit with Ben’s personality as both a pretty humble person (he doesn’t flaunt his other degrees either) and someone on the outs with the academic community. More on that later.

However, I don’t know that that’s the case based on how other people are titled in the film.

Abigail is always “Dr. Chase.”

Her assistant, Ben, Agent Johnson, and Ian all refer to her as “Dr. Chase” at various points throughout the movie.

Ben obviously starts calling her “Abigail” as they get to know each other better, but even when he’s listing his requests to Sadusky at the end, he refers to her by title. And damn right. Respect her.

Maybe Abigail simply uses the title—as a result of her job, personal preference, or both—and Ben doesn’t. It does seem like the kind of thing that would come up both to her and in general to establish Ben’s credibility though.

There’s also the potential to ready Sadusky’s line as knowing Ben has a Ph.D but choosing to be disrespectful. As in:

SADUSKY Hello. Mr. Gates (derogatory)

This, I think, is the least likely option, though, because Peter Sadusky is unfailingly polite, even regarding the people he’s pursuing.

For example, he also always calls Ian "Mr. Howe." In the surveillance van near the Intrepid he says

SADUSKY If that's not Mr Howe, I want to know who it is.

And when he’s arresting Ian in Boston he says

SADUSKY You're under arrest, Mr Howe.

So my reading is that Sadusky always uses someone appropriate title. If he knows Ben has a Ph.D, I think he’d refer to him as “Dr. Gates” because he has no reason to know if Ben prefers not to use the title.

Book of Secrets

There is one time where Ben is referred to as “Dr.” on screen, and that’s in Book of Secrets.

When Abigail meets Mitch at the restaurant, she receives a call from Ben, finishes decoding the “Laboulaye Lady” clue, and hangs up because she can tell Mitch is overhearing. Regarding the call, Mitch then asks

MITCH Dr. Gates?

There are four possible readings of this line that I can think of.

Ben does have a Ph.D, it just wasn’t mentioned in the first movie for whatever reason

Ben does not have a Ph.D, but Mitch incorrectly assumes he does

Ben does not have a Ph.D, but Mitch is attempting to flatter Abigail by flattering her (ex) boyfriend*

*Is this a good strategy? No. Do I find it a plausible character action? Sure.

And finally there’s my preferred reading

Ben did not have a Ph.D during the events of National Treasure, but was awarded an honorary doctorate after finding the Templar treasure.

Why does he need one?

Ben is clearly piecing together a custom-built treasure hunting resume. It’s logical to me why he would want to start out studying history then pivot to more specific technical and engineering disciplines once he realized he would need those skills. I’m not sold on why he would go back for his doctorate.

A Ph.D is an incredibly specialized degree. Ben would be spending years writing a thesis on a single topic.

If that topic is the Templar treasure, Ben would have a nearly impossible time defending his thesis. We know that his surname alone is well-known enough in the historical community that Abigail knows about his family’s reputation just from hearing his name. Ben would be subjecting himself to years of derision, skepticism, and humiliation on a thesis he is not able to defend because we know he has yet to convince anyone but Ian and Riley of the existence of the treasure.

Or the topic is not the Templar treasure, in which case, what is he doing there? He’s spending years of his life studying a thing that he does not want to be studying. Maybe he thinks he can do his treasure hunting on the side, but graduate school is a black hole like no other.*

There’s the classes, papers, research, readings, not to mention that he’d probably be expected to teach as well. He’d might also need a part-time job to make ends meet, because while most Ph.D programs provide a stipend, it’s usually barely enough to live on and definitely not enough to fund treasure hunting on the side. Given the way Patrick frames the family's finances, I don't get the impression that Ben's big on saving up.

*I have a less intensive graduate degree in a less intensive field, and I could barely keep my head above water doing the literal thing I was there to do. I cannot fathom attempting to run another massive project on the side.

That’s not to say, however, that Ben didn’t attend a Ph.D program at some point though.

Headcanon time

First of all, I think the story is funnier the more Ben is just “some guy.”

Similar to how I think that “retired Naval officer Ben Gates” changes the flavor of the story for the worse, I think “rogue historian Ben Gates” changes the flavor, if not for the worse than simply for the less interesting.

My personal reading of the situation is this:

Ben gets his bachelor’s in American history, develops his Charlotte-is-as-ship theory while in school, then proceeds directly into the engineering degree + Navy ROTC because he’s discovered that the Charlotte wrecked and knows he’ll need to salvage her. (When he goes to MIT Patrick’s like, thank god he’s finally doing something sensible. When he learns Ben’s doing salvage diving he’s like, well fuck.)

After school Ben salvage dives to pay the bills, and treasure hunts in his spare time. At some point either the money or his free time takes enough of a hit that Ben needs to make a change. Thus, he starts applying to Ph.D programs. And/or he needs particular resources or expertise at this point and additional study is the best way to get them.

He stays in the program for a few years, but not being able to truly pursue the treasure grates on him. Constantly being told—directly or not—that you’re stupid for what you’re interested in or for the way you want to pursue the subject absolutely sucks. (See also: my time in academia.) The derision and the strain on his treasure hunting time ware down on him until the program isn’t worth it anymore. He got what he came for, so he leaves. Ben briefly wonders if finishing with a non-treasure thesis would finally make Patrick proud of him, but decides against it.

It’s during these next years that he refines his theory, discovers critical information needed to realize that the Charlotte never actually sunk, but went adrift in the Arctic circle, recruits Ian to finance the search now that he as a tangible plan, and pulls in Riley to do the computer modeling that Ben can’t do on his own.

After he finds the treasure, his undergraduate alma matter Georgetown awards Ben an honorary doctorate. Patrick, Abigail, and Riley attend the ceremony. They’re all very proud. Ben gets unexpectedly emotional, at least on the inside. He hadn’t realized before that moment that this actually was something he wanted, and that he’d actually felt pretty torn between academic study—which he does excel at and enjoy—and treasure hunting.

Conclusion

So, there you go.

Does Ben have a Ph.D?

Only if you want him to.

[esoanem]

What are your masters in?

This is kinda complicated because Cambridge is a silly place for silly people and so there are several possible answers

The course I applied for was a 4-year combined master's in natural sciences

As you go you specialise into a specific science and I specialised hard into theoretical physics, so by the time of my third and fourth year that was all I was studying

So then I get super depressed, have to take a year out, and when I come back for my second fourth year have to withdraw from the final exams again but am "deemed to have deserved honours" and allowed to graduate as normal

Cambridge, being silly, doesn't actually officially put the subject or a grade or anything on its degrees (only on the full transcripts). Only the name of the degree and if it's honours or not (in the UK honours is actually the norm at academic unis at least, and an "ordinary" degree is generally understood as a sort of soft-fail). At this point I have a BA from my first three years (Cambridge doesn't award any bachelor's degrees other than BA's for silly reasons we'll get to in a sec) and an MSc from my fourth year

Some years later, they let you graduate a second time to turn your BA into an MA. Because this MA doesn't actually require any extra work (only not getting imprisoned, divorced, bankrupt, etc) it's kinda fake, and not including a "Cantab" (from Latin Cantabrigiensis "from Cambridge") after it on a CV to point out that it's not really real would definitely be misleading and potentially fraudulent. Because of this, actual arts master's degrees at Cambridge are MPhil's instead. Technically the MA outranks other master's degrees (except theology, which outranks everything), despite not having required any real work because again, Cambridge is a silly place for silly people

So now I have an MA & MSc, but what are they in?

Well according to the certificate, MA is just in arts; according to the course I applied to (and never transferred off), it's in Natural Sciences; according to what I was actually doing most of the time I was studying for the degree that became this one it's in (Theoretical) Physics; and according to what I was doing in order for it to become a master's it's in Not Getting Imprisoned, Divorced, Bankrupt, etc

Likewise, the MSc is in Science according to the certificate; Natural Sciences according to my external UCAS application; Physics according to my internal fourth year application; (Theoretical) Physics according to what I was actually studying for it; and Nothing(!?) according to my fourth year exams

On my CV I don't list a subject for the MA (Cantab), and put Theoretical Physics for the MSc

[gradsireninc]

Top Freelancer jobs for Teenagers

A freelancing job is a role in which an individual or student works to acquire knowledge and abilities that will help them advance in their profession. In order to financially sustain their families and further their careers, many teenagers begin working as freelancers.

As Technology advances, many people are using the internet as part of their daily lives. Teenagers mostly grasp the internet and use it flexibly. Teenagers are increasingly choosing to work online jobs. Most Companies hire Teenagers for a smooth working process and Instant results and the teenager gets the chance to earn.

 In this article, we give the importance of freelancing jobs and help you choose the best job for you.

Online Tutoring

As technology is expanding, bringing the world closer, Students now spend more time on the Internet. If you are a college student and interested in Teaching. You can educate the students by giving online tutorials in the summer. An online tutoring platform offers an easy accessible and flexible way to interact with students and earn additional revenue.

Online Tutorial has a unique opportunity to work with students and you can also teach to the children, and juniors of your studies. Whatever the field is, you can share all your experiences. You may give academic guidance for assignments and tests, help with course materials or share study techniques.

Skills and Educational Requirements

Skills - In Depth knowledge of the subject that you want to teach, Communication skills, time management, technical skills, explanation skills, patience.

Educational Requirements - You are meant to be an expert in the field of course or subject you want to teach. Some Tutorial roles need educational certificates or a degree to start their career in Online teaching.

2. Content Writing

Job Content Writing is becoming more and more popular in today’s Tech world. If you have a passion for writing, creativity and good sentence formation/grammar you can start working for a client. If you are college-educated you should work part-time or as a freelance writer. These writing jobs will help you to build your career and get the best job at some period.

Many Companies hire content writers to work for their clients on content for the website, articles, social media writings, product descriptions, content for affiliates. The best thing is that freelancers can enjoy their work and spend some amount of time finishing their task

Skills and Educational Requirements

Skills - Sentence formation, Grammar, Editing skills.

Educational Requirements - As a freelancing content writer one should hold a Bachelor’s Degree, Some Roles accept Intermediate, Journalism.

3. Video Editing

Many Companies hire part-time or freelance video editors. As the Teenagers have the creativity and simple tuneup the editing skills. These jobs are for the people who love to be a video editor. These clients benefit from the assistance of freelance video editors, who adjust the raw footage's music, length, and quality for their YouTube channels, Instagram or for business usage

Although editing videos takes a lot of time, teenagers who are up to the task can make good money doing it. Anyone with the proper skill can get the video editing job, some companies or clients should hire freelancers based on their age. They should have a minimum age limit and possess a degree or an educational certificate. Someone who wants to start their career in video editing can start working as a freelancer, but it is a time-consuming job they have to manage their studies and work beyond

Skills and Educational Requirements

Skills -  Creativity, Ease of communication, Editing skills, Tools/software to edit videos.

Educational Requirements - A Video editor can hold an experience certificate in editing. Bachelor’s Degree or an equivalent, some clients hire intermediate students based on their experience certificate of a course done by them

4. Graphic Designer

As a teenager, one can be a graphic designer if he/she is interested in creativity. They must work on different software to get the best results. Many Companies hire freelancing / Part-time graphic designers to start marketing services on social media or for their website or clients.

If you are an expert in Graphic designing, you can offer services in freelancing sites to work for clients. Many Sites like Upwork, Fiverr, and GradSiren hire people to work part-time or freelancing.

Skills and Educational Requirements

Skills - Should be Aware of the software or photo or image editing tools, Can be able to create banners/posters using logos, brands, and taglines

Educational Requirements - He/She should hold an experience certificate in graphic design. Some companies only need a bachelor’s degree or an intermediate.

𝟓.𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫

If you are a good speaker and can translate the audio that you heard to a specific language, then this job is for you. This job is for people who can easily understand and convert the audio to some other languages.

Their duties involve reading or listening to content in one language and accurately translating it into one or more other languages while maintaining the original tone and meaning. They could also write copy for websites, movies, articles and more.

𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬

𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 -Communication Skills, Writing Skills, Listening, research, Translation skills, Time Management

𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 -A bachelor's degree is normally required for translators; frequent degree subjects include communications and business. Technically oriented students might be able to translate at a higher level.

𝟔.𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭

This is the online job any teen can do, it involves simply writing the text or sentence that you heard. Writing subtitles for the video is one example of this job. One of their duties is to listen to recorded files and write down the information in written text format.

There is a growing need for transcriber jobs because there are a tonne of audio and video clips that need to be professionally transcribed. Numerous websites exist that are only focused on providing transcribing services.

𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬

𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 -Typing, Active Listening, Detail the scene, Time management, Focus, Multitasking

𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 -Anyone who is in higher education or has a bachelor’s degree will be eligible.

𝟕.𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐫

Many Teenagers are on social media and explore the channels, spending most of their time on social media. They generally understand the usage of social media and use hashtags to get the most vivid reach and few are making viral videos/posters.

Working as a social media manager allows you to support a brand or account holder in connecting with their audience, creating interesting content, and maintaining a relevant presence. Additionally, you might have to invest some effort in creating graphics, looking up popular hashtags, responding to comments and Tracking the analytics of pages/channels.

𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬

𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 -Communication, Writing Skills, Networking, Scheduling posts, Analysis and Reporting, Organization, Copywriting.

𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 -Obtaining formal training that can assist you in running your freelance business is possible if you have an associate's or bachelor's degree in business or a similar discipline.

𝟖.𝐂𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞/𝐓𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠

For everyone who likes explaining concepts and conversing, this is an excellent profession. You'll be interacting with individuals as a customer service representative or telemarketer. Assistance with their questions and queries will fall under your purview.

The Job may be a little tough because you need to handle different kinds of customers and different queries, all you need to have is patience. However, since the business hires customer service representatives to train its staff for various scenarios and inquiries, this shouldn't be an issue. Additionally, it gives teenagers a great deal of confidence for the future.

A Telemarketing person is hired to explain and market the product or service on call. It would be a recorded call or a live call.

𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬

𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 -communication, attentive listening, patience, creative problem-solving, adaptability and positivity

𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 -One Should hold a degree, some companies don’t require any certificates/ educational background.

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧

In essence, freelancing empowers teenagers to take control of their professional development, fostering independence and preparing them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. By embracing the world of freelancing, teenagers can not only earn income but also gain valuable insights and experiences that contribute to their personal and professional growth.

[canary0]

I saw some posts talking about Mina leaving her job to work with him in his work, since society at the time wouldn't support someone being a wife and a professional and I'm like, "Oh, I need to look up her current job and think about that."

So basically, the qualifications are different now than they were - it would be difficult to get the job in your 20s, period, never mind your early 20s. She'd need nearly as much education as Jonathan has as a solicitor who just passed his exam, and much more experience.

Jonathan also needs to be at least 24 to start his law career in 2023, assuming he studied full time, and we know he spend some time as a solicitor's clerk, as well.

So let's say Jonathan is 26 in 2023 to allow for how law works nowadays. Mina would also have to have a bachelor's degree (3 years), and ideally a postgraduate certificate in teaching (1 year) so 22 at least to start as a teacher. She could potentially be a deputy or assistant head teacher at 26 if she was hypercompetent and the right opportunity opened up.

So that'll work. Aging them up a little works for how we think of landmark events at different ages these days compared to there period anyway.

Uh, thanks for bearing with my rambling notes as I get my thoughts in order about jorbs.

[sixty-silver-wishes]

Do you know of any good paying jobs for writers? You've mentioned getting a certification for editing while in college (?) and I was wondering how you did that

unfortunately I'm still looking! I'm currently doing a bit of freelance with BlueCat Screenwriting Competition, where I'm reading and reviewing people's scripts, and getting paid $25 per feature script review. This isn't that much, but it's mainly to build my resume; I currently work in retail as my main job, although I'm hoping to quit as soon as I can find something that pays better. The writing world is all about connections; it's super competitive, and many of my peers whom I graduated with are in the same boat as me for now. As of now, I'm mainly doing freelance and applying for internships and jobs in publishing, but also anywhere that might need editing, proofreading, or communications work, which many companies do, not just publishing houses; you may find yourself looking outside just publishing in order to land a writing job. However, if you are looking into publishing, PublishersMarketplace.com and Bookjobs.com are both sites that regularly list job opportunities. In addition to browsing those frequently, I'm also on Linkedin trying to network with my former professors and classmates. I've gotten to the point where I'm finally getting interviews after applying for jobs for months, so fingers crossed!

As for my certificate, I earned it along with my Bachelor's in Creative Writing in college; if you're currently in college, I'd recommend asking your advisor if that certificate is offered. It's a bit like a minor, but with a few less qualifications (I would have taken a minor if it was offered, but my university only had the certificate). Nonetheless, it was quite rigorous and required a number of classes that the Creative Writing degree didn't, including graphic design, advanced English grammar, some linguistics courses, and a course on the editing industry. I also was able to work on the staff of the university literary magazine for credit for the certificate; if you're able to do this, I highly recommend it. Lit magazines look good on your resume if you're going into publishing, and while they're very intensive, you'll learn and apply a variety of skills- editing and proofreading, communicating with student authors, organizing tasks and coordinating events, graphic design work, and learning to manage your time within strict deadlines. It's basically intended as a preview of professional editing, so if that's what you want to do, I'd recommend looking into it. Good luck!

One more tip- if you're in writing classes, or in any other humanities field, make friends! Yes, the industry is competitive, but don't think of your classmates as competition; they may be the people who will help you get a leg up in the future. Workshop together, collaborate, critique each other's works, and keep in touch! I still try to communicate with people who were in my classes; we can let each other know which opportunities we've found, keep each other updated on our creative projects and career paths, and encourage each other's writing. :)

[spacerockfloater]

holy fuck this is crazy okay so i’ve been thinking about studying at national and kapodistrian university of athens and i’ve been searching around the internet seeing people’s opinions on the school and i saw a post you made about studying there which is such a coincidence because we are moots! anyways i just want to ask how do you like it there? is there anything i should know before applying?

OH MY GOSH, OH MY GOSH, OH MY GOSH!!! I CAN’T BELIEVE THIS!!!

Okay SO, I have a bachelor’s in classical studies and linguistics, I think Americans call that a double major? That thing was EXCRUCIATING, it was 60 subjects in 4 years, plus an internship and a thesis. My master’s, which is in computational linguistics and data analytics, has been even harder. I have too much to say about this topic, so I’ll categorise all the shit I need to speak on and hopefully this will help you!

Academics: The education is top notch. There’s a reason it’s one of the top 100 universities in the world in many lists. There’s no department that has a bad reputation. You’ll have to do a lot of individual studying, though. We’ve got well equipped libraries. The professors are really good at what they do. I’m not sure whether you wish to pursue a bachelor’s or a master’s, so keep in mind that we have almost no Bscs where the lessons are delivered in the English language and only a few Master’s, which I believe are about Medicine, Law etc. Almost always, the lessons are conducted in Greek and you’ll need a Greek language certificate to get accepted to a greek university. UNLESS OF COURSE you’re only here for Erasmus or you’ve managed to find an english delivered programme, in which case you’ll be totally fine. Just make sure you check!

Finance: All bachelors’ are free. Almost all masters’ are 100% free and if they aren’t, they don’t cost more than 2k euros for the whole duration of your studies, and even then you can apply for an exemption. Now, since everything is free, there’s no such thing as financial aid or loans for students here, so you’ll have to find a way to cover your life expenses yourself. I’d say the average person needs about 800 euros - 1k per month in order to lead a somewhat decent life in Athens without a roommate. Your uni schedule will allow you to work (if your visa allows you to) since attendance is not mandatory here, except if you have any labs. Also, as a student you’ll have major discounts almost everywhere, so make sure you ask about it everywhere you are.

Premises: Please bear in mind that the actual university buildings in Greece suck MAJOR ass. They’re old, they’re brutalist, they’re bare, they’ve got no heating or air conditioning and so on. They are horrible. Generally, the more prestigious a faculty is, the worse the condition of its establishment. Picture soviet union buildings. There are very few dorms available in Athens, so make sure to check if you meet the criteria for one or if you’ll need to arrange for accommodation yourself. Mind you, finding an apartment to rent in Athens is gonna be very challenging. The house market is so bad that it is unusual for Greeks to leave their parents’ house before getting married, usually in their 30s, so roommates ain’t really a thing here. The university does offer free breakfast, lunch and dinner every day though (there are certain financial conditions that dictate whether one is entitled to free food or not but they’re so lenient that almost everyone meets them, like your family’s annual income not being more than 100k or smth).

Administration: Now, when it comes to the administration of the university, it is quite decent. You’ll hear a lot of people complain about this, but honestly we Greeks do love to complain. The administration gets things done fast usually, as long as you make sure to have the right paperwork for your requests. We’ve also got a great career office, helped me land 2 different office jobs when I was younger.

Social life: Your peers are going to adore you. Young people here LOVE foreign students, everyone will want to be friends with you. We’ve got a bunch of different clubs you can join and nightlife in Athens is awesome. Winter kinda sucks ass, but spring and summer are totally amazing and you’ll be able to visit a shit ton of places. Greeks are generally insanely friendly and helpful. If you are a POC or obviously LGBT+ (meaning that people could clearly guess you belong in the community by glancing at you), I have to warn you that some old fucks or trashy people may glance strangely at you at the bus stop or the superkmarket, but the people you’ll actually have and want to socialise with here (fellow students, people your age etc.) will love you. The youth is very progressive here, and while old and middle aged folks can be a pain, they may scowl at you but nothing worse.

ALL IN ALL: EKPA or UOA is a great university, meaning that it is a very good place to acquire knowledge. Our facilities are kinda shit, though. You can only accept it for its inner beauty, lol. Our libraries and lessons are filled with material in the Greek language mostly. Education here is free. The university has a lot to offer and our teachers are extremely experienced and knowledgeable. You’ll almost never have homework, your grade in a lesson will usually depend 100% on your finals. You’ll have to study a lot. Athens and Greece in general are very beautiful. The people here are very loving and understanding and you’ll have an amazing time here. HOWEVER, if you’re looking for an aesthetically pleasing college life, I recommend you skip it. It’s nearly impossible to romanticise EKPA. Will you have a good and fun experience here and will you come out a very educated person? Yup. Will you have a DREAMY college life and reality you’ll long for in the years to come? Fuck no!

Please feel free to ask ANY questions, I’m more than happy to answer. And if you do decide to come here, ΚΑΛΗ ΑΡΧΗ! ❤️

[himtcollege0]

HIMT College: A Premier Educational Hub in Greater Noida

A leading institution in the domain of higher studies, HIMT College is based out of Greater Noida. The College is known for preparing a generation of students that are prepared to lead the world tomorrow which means perfect Education in every sense. Rusticating in Greater Noida area, HIMT College offers students an impressive list of under graduate and post graduate programs to choose from. Blend with best-in-class industry relevant courses along with its academic foundation HIMT College can be rated as the 5-star colleges in Greater Noida today.

What sets HIMT College apart in Best Colleges in Greater Noida

HIMT College - a distinct establishment in a university town teaming up with myriad options of institutions with its unparalleled agenda pushing for educational services that are on par with the global standards. From popular courses such as BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration and BCA (bachelor of Computer Application) and loads of many it has a course for all you can think of getting a degree in. This Guaranteed Course Certification in addition to peerless validation has placed HIMT College on the apex as one of the best colleges in Greater Noida.

HIMT College has top of the line facilities in form of modern class rooms, cutting edge labs, library with a collection that will take your breath away and recreational area for students. With an extraordinary faculty team mixing of stalwarts from the industry HIMT College doesn’t stop at formal classes ensuring that their students are drilled in practical yet distinguishingly different insights on the subject they take up. Leading the way in experiential learning Concept HIMT College is also one of the top BBA colleges in Noida which produces cream in the field of Management and Business within India.

Flagship programs at HIMT College

One of the most sought-after courses here at HIMT College is the BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration). As one of the best BBA colleges in Noida, this course has been specifically designed to provide students with a solid foundation in Business background along with leadership and the thinking of a strategic head. Under the brand name of HIMT College students get to not just read about business but also make an impact through practical business workshops, meetings with industry professionals and live projects.

HIMT College is also one of the top destinations for the BCA course. The IT department at HIMT College is arguably the best in the industry in terms of expertise and transfer of Knowledge. The BCA, Bachelor of Computer Applications will prep you up in varied areas including software development, languages and of course applications. As technology keeps updating the curriculum at HIMT College makes sure that students are exposed to what’s the latest trends and technology in the Market ensuring they are Industry ready.

Gateway To the Upcoming Opportunities

The ethos that HIMT College goes about imparting is not just education, but the enrichment of all the students. In order to provide a more enriching learning experience, the college conduct everts like One of the best BBA colleges in Noida, HIMT College, holds a placement cell that summarizes top companies in the world offering jobs to HIMTians ensuring that they get placed and are made ready for their Transition Period successfully.

Given its strong placement track record and ties to the industry, HIMT College ticks every box for quality education in Greater Noida. For aspiring students seeking to make a mark in the world of business or technology, HIMT College stands as the ideal platform to launch their careers.

Conclusion

Curious about Studying in Greater Noida, HIMT College should easily make it as its first choice. HIMT College offers top-notch education with multiple exposures in the industry, hence one of the best BBA colleges in Noida or best BCA Colleges in Noida is HIMT College for sure. Grab this opportunity to study in this dynamic institution that is more than willing to help shape the future.

Visit here: https://medium.com/@himtcollege90/himt-college-a-premier-educational-hub-in-greater-noida-aee3e466b1d1

[certoceanp]

Becoming a Project Management Professional (PMP) in Ottawa: Your Guide to Career Advancement

In today's hectic business world, project management has become an essential ability. The importance of a Project Management Professional (PMP) qualification is becoming more widely acknowledged by professionals in Ottawa, the center of Canada's political, technological, and economic activities. The significance of the PMP designation, its advantages, and how Ottawa professionals may obtain this esteemed certification to advance their careers will all be covered in this article.

What is the Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification?

The Project Management Institute (PMI) grants the internationally recognized Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. This certification shows that a person has passed the PMP exam and fulfilled certain requirements for education and work experience. It displays a person's capacity for successful project management in a variety of fields, such as government, IT, construction, and healthcare all of which are well-known in Ottawa.

Why Pursue a PMP Certification in Ottawa?

1. Strong Need for Experience in Project Management

The governmental sector, IT firms, and service sectors all make major contributions to Ottawa's varied economy. Organizations need competent project managers who can supervise projects from inception to completion, guarantee on-time delivery, and efficiently manage budgets as the city continues to change. Professionals with PMP certification have the abilities necessary to succeed in these positions.

2. Professional Development and Improved Employment Prospects

Having a PMP certification can have a big impact on your professional path. For project management positions in Ottawa, many businesses give preference to applicants who hold the PMP certification, and they frequently pay those individuals more. Studies conducted by the international industry show that PMP holders generally make more money than their non-certified peers, making it a wise investment in one's career.

3. Appreciation of Expertise and Professionalism

More than just a line on your CV, the PMP qualification represents your dedication to the project management industry. Getting this certification is a testament to your knowledge, commitment, and project management skills. Being a certified professional might help you stand out from the competition in Ottawa's competitive work market.

Steps to Become a Project Management Professional (PMP) in Ottawa

1. Fulfill the prerequisites for eligibility

The following prerequisites must be fulfilled in order to be eligible to take the PMP exam:

Educational Background: A high school graduation with 60 months of project management experience or a four-year degree (bachelor's degree or equivalent) with at least 36 months of project management experience.

35 hours of formal project management education are required; this can be obtained through specialist training courses.

2. Take a Course to Prepare for the PMP

PMP test preparation classes are offered by a number of training organizations in Ottawa. Exam techniques, practice questions, and the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide) are all covered in these courses. Online and in-person training facilities that are renowned for helping applicants get ready for the PMP test are among the well-liked choices.

3. Submit a PMP exam application.

Applying for the PMP exam via the PMI website is the next step after finishing your training. During the application process, you must include information about your training and experience in project management. To prevent delays or disqualifications, confirm that your experience meets the requirements for eligibility.

4. Review and Get Ready for the Test

With 180 multiple-choice questions covering a variety of project management topics, the PMP test is renowned for its difficulty. Set aside enough time to study important ideas including stakeholder management, project integration, scope, time, cost, quality, resource, communication, risk, and procurement. To make sure you are ready, make use of PMP study materials, practice exams, and review courses.

5. Take the test and pass it.

The last step is to take the test online or at one of the approved testing locations in Ottawa. The purpose of the test is to evaluate your capacity to use project management concepts in practical settings. You will join a select group of professionals known for their proficiency in project management once you pass the exam and obtain the PMP certification.

The Benefits of Being a PMP in Ottawa

Improved Image in the Workplace

Having a PMP certification greatly enhances your profile's trustworthiness. PMP-certified individuals are frequently given preference for leadership positions and high-impact projects in Ottawa's business community, which includes government agencies and global corporations.

Opportunities for Networking

You can join the worldwide PMI network, which consists of local clubs and chapters, as a PMP. Professionals can network, attend workshops, and keep current on industry trends and best practices with the help of the PMI Ottawa branch.

Ongoing Professional Growth

To keep their certification current, PMI requires PMP-certified professionals to complete 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) every three years. This guarantees that PMPs stay on the cutting edge of project management techniques and adjust to market shifts.

Conclusion

Obtaining the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification can be a game-changer for Ottawa professionals looking to progress in their project management careers. A PMP designation not only confirms your talents but also positions you for success in a competitive employment market due to its global recognition and demonstrated influence on career advancement. You may establish yourself as a project management leader in Ottawa's ever-changing economic environment by fulfilling the prerequisites, signing up for training, studying hard, and passing the test.

[aptechvisaglobalimmigration]

Applying for a visa for Australia PR.

Visa for Australia Permanent Residence

An individual with a permanent visa who is not an Australian citizen is referred to as a permanent resident.

A permanent resident of Australia is free to live, work, and pursue education there.

A step-by-step guide on the Australian PR process

Check your eligibility

You must first determine whether you are qualified for a PR visa. For more information on this, visit the Department of Home Affairs website to find out about the many types of visas available as well as the necessary documentation, fees, and processing times. Depending on your qualifications, training, and experience, you must also choose the best visa pathway at this phase.

Free Australia Immigration Assessment Form

Apply for a skill evaluation

Now submit an application to a selected authority for the approval of your educational credential assessment. To determine whether your talents fulfil the requirements Australian employers have for candidates for a given occupation, many occupations have different assessment organizations.

Submit an Expression of Interest

For Australia's Skill Select system, you must complete this stage by submitting an online expression of interest. Australia's online skilled worker visa application system is called Skill Select. The Australia point system assesses a profile based on a number of factors, including a candidate's age, language abilities, education, work experience, etc.

The system assigns a score to the applicant in light of this data. To be eligible for a visa stream, a candidate needs to receive at least 65 points.

Await the invitation and submit a visa application.

You will get an ITA from DHA Australia if your results are good enough. You have 60 days to reply to your application invitation and turn in all required paperwork.

Australia PR Eligibility

You must satisfy the following criteria in order to apply for permanent residency in Australia:

be younger than 45 years old

have had your Registration of Interest (ROI) chosen;

65 or more points must have been earned.

possess a reliable skills evaluation

possess proficiency in the English language

Satisfy the character and fitness standards.

Necessary Documents for an Australia PR visa

Applicants must submit the following important documents in order to immigrate to Australia.

Educational diplomas

Linguistic proficiency in English

Certificates of experience at work (if applicable)

Travel papers such as passports, permission to migrate from relevant authorities

Police and medical verification documents

Evidence of payment method (bonds, bank accounts, cash, shares etc.)

Australia PR Points

Skilled immigration points for Australia

If an applicant passes the requirements under the following criteria, he will be awarded the necessary Australian immigration points under the Australian immigration point system.

Age: Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 44 to receive points under the age

English language: By presenting the test results of any reputable English language proficiency test, the candidate should demonstrate that he has the necessary proficiency in the language.

Points for Overseas Experience (Work Outside of Australia): If the applicant has three, five, or eight years of work experience outside of Australia in the last ten years in the designated occupation, they may be eligible for points.

Australian Experience:

1. The candidate is eligible to get points for having worked in Australia full-time in one of the SOL-listed professions.

2. If the candidate has one, three, five, or eight years of Australian work experience in the designated field over the previous ten years, they are eligible for points.

Overseas Qualification Points (Qualifications Attained Outside of Australia): The candidate may be awarded points for legitimate degrees, such as a PhD or a bachelor's degree.

Australian Study: The applicant may receive extra credit if they complete a program in Australia that lasts at least two academic years.

Live and Study in a Regional Area: If the applicant satisfies the Australian study requirement of doing so for at least two years, he may be eligible for additional points. This requirement is to live and study in a "regional low population growth metropolitan area."

Partner Skills: If the applicant's partner meets the prerequisites for age, proficiency in English, qualifications, and skills assessment results, the applicant may receive points under this category.

The DHA (Department of Home Affairs), a body in charge of immigration, would deem candidates eligible if they received at least 65 points.

Also read:

???? Can my brother sponsor me if he has an Australian PR Visa?

???? How to immigrate to Australia from India

Your ability to obtain an Australia PR visa depends on the Australia PR points. As was previously stated, you need to earn at least 6

The Australian Skilled Occupation List

The list of jobs that you can pursue to obtain a Skilled Independent Visa for Australia is shown below (subclass 189).

Step 1: You must work in one of the listed skilled occupations.

Step 2: Finish the ONLINE ELIGIBILITY ASSESSMENT. The Eligibility Assessment must be passed with a score of 65 points or above.

What does the Australia PR Cost?

The list of application fees has been updated in accordance with the most recent Australian Immigration Authority standards.

Applicant - 4115 AUD

Dependent Applicant - 2055 AUD

Child fees - 1030 AUD (Per Child)

To know more about the latest draw and Australia Immigration News Updates: VISIT HERE

Also read:

???? How Much Money Is Required for Australia Immigration

???? Process for obtaining Australian Permanent Residence in 2022

???? Find out the Mechanism behind Australia PR Process

5 points using the Points Grid.

[nurseeden]

Open Your Future: The Essential Guide to Family Nurse Practitioner Certification

Unlock Your Future: The Essential Guide to Family ​Nurse Practitioner Certification

Are you a registered nurse considering advancing‍ your career​ as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)? This comprehensive guide will walk you ‍through the certification process, its benefits, practical tips, and ‌more. By the end, you’ll be⁣ ready to unlock a fulfilling career path in nursing.

What is ‍a Family Nurse Practitioner?

A Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) is an ‌advanced practice registered nurse who provides family-focused healthcare. ⁣They are equipped to⁢ diagnose and treat ⁢a range of health conditions, perform physical⁢ examinations, order diagnostic tests, and prescribe medications. FNPs typically work in ⁤various healthcare settings, such as clinics, hospitals, and private practices, focusing on preventive‍ care and⁤ patient education.

Steps to Family Nurse Practitioner ⁢Certification

Becoming a certified Family Nurse Practitioner requires meeting several key qualifications and completing the certification ⁤process. Here’s how⁤ to get started:

1. Obtain a Nursing Degree

Earn an Associate Degree in​ Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Ensure you pass the NCLEX-RN examination to ‌become a licensed registered nurse.

2. Gain Experience

Before applying for FNP programs, it’s beneficial to gain ‍experience by working as an RN‍ in a clinical setting. This will give you practical skills and insights into patient care.

3. ​Pursue an Advance Practice Nursing Program

Enroll in a Master’s or Doctoral program that specializes ⁤in Family Nursing Practice. ⁣Ensure the ‌program is‌ accredited by a ‍recognized body.

4. Complete Clinical Hour Requirements

Most programs require a specified number of supervised clinical hours, typically ranging from 500 to ‌700 hours, oriented towards family health.

5. Certification Examination

After completing your degree, you’ll need⁣ to pass ⁢a certification exam. The‌ most recognized certifications include:

Certification

Organizing Body

Family Nurse ⁢Practitioner Certification (FNP-BC)

American Nurses Credentialing‍ Center ⁣(ANCC)

Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (CFNP)

American Academy of Nurse Practitioners ⁤(AANP)

6. Apply for State Licensure

After passing the​ exam, you must apply for licensure in your state, which typically requires submitting proof of education and passing the certification exam.

Benefits​ of Becoming a Family Nurse‌ Practitioner

Choosing the FNP path offers ‌numerous rewards, including:

Increased earning potential: FNPs​ typically earn higher‌ salaries‍ compared to RNs.

Greater autonomy: FNPs often work independently, manage their patients, and make ⁣clinical decisions.

Impact on community‌ health:⁣ FNPs‍ play a⁢ vital role ⁤in providing comprehensive care to families.

Diverse ⁤job⁤ opportunities: ⁤FNPs can work in various settings, including hospitals, private practices, and community health organizations.

Practical Tips for Aspiring FNPs

Here are some essential tips to help you⁤ succeed in your FNP journey:

Network with current FNPs to gain ⁣insights and advice.

Attend workshops⁣ and conferences to stay updated on the latest practices.

Join ‍professional organizations ⁢like the American‍ Academy of Nurse Practitioners for resources ⁢and ​networking.

Consider online classes for flexibility​ with your schedule.

Case Studies:⁣ Success Stories

Here are ⁣a few inspiring success⁣ stories from FNPs ⁣who transformed their careers:

Jane⁢ Doe: After ​becoming an FNP, Jane ​started a family clinic in ⁤her rural community, significantly improving access to care for underserved‌ families.

John Smith: John initially worked as an RN in a hospital setting. Later,⁤ he transitioned to an FNP role, focusing on preventive care and ⁣chronic disease management in a primary care practice.

First-Hand Experience: FNPs Share Their Journey

Listening⁤ to⁣ those who’ve walked the path can provide motivation and insights. Here’s⁢ what some FNPs have to say:

“Transitioning from‍ RN ⁣to FNP opened​ up a world of opportunities for me. I love being able to impact my ⁤patients’ lives directly.” – ​Maria T.

“The journey was challenging, but every step ⁣was ⁤worth ​it when I realized how much I could help my community as an FNP.” – Robert L.

Conclusion

Becoming a ⁣Family Nurse Practitioner is a ⁢fulfilling journey that can significantly enhance your professional life and improve community health. By⁢ following the essential steps outlined in this guide, understanding ⁢the numerous benefits, and leveraging ⁤tips from current practitioners,​ you’re well on your way to achieving your dream FNP certification. Take that first step ⁣today, and unlock a future full⁤ of possibilities!

https://nursingcertificationcourses.com/open-your-future-the-essential-guide-to-family-nurse-practitioner-certification/