STORY

A lady in a faded grey dress and her husband, dressed in a home-spun suit walked in timidly without an appointment into the Harvard University President’s outer office. The secretary could tell in a moment that such backwoods, country hicks had no business at Harvard and probably didn’t even deserve to be in Harvard.

Shares

The secretary eyed them with disdain, tapping her perfectly manicured nails impatiently on her desk. “Do you have an appointment?” she asked curtly, her tone dripping with condescension.

The couple exchanged a nervous glance but remained undeterred. “No, ma’am, we don’t,” the husband replied, his voice steady despite the palpable tension in the air. “But we were hoping to speak with the President about a matter of great importance.”

The secretary raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. “I’m sorry, but without an appointment, I can’t let you in,” she said dismissively, already reaching for the intercom to notify security.

But before she could make the call, a voice from the doorway interrupted her. “It’s alright, Susan. They’re expected,” came a calm, authoritative voice.

The secretary turned to see the President himself standing there, his expression curious yet welcoming. “Please, come in,” he said, gesturing for the couple to follow him into his office.

As they entered, the couple couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed by the grandeur of the room. The President motioned for them to take a seat, and they obliged, perching nervously on the edge of the plush chairs.

“Now, what brings you here today?” the President asked kindly, his gaze softening as he regarded the couple.

The woman cleared her throat, her hands trembling slightly in her lap. “Well, sir, it’s about our daughter,” she began, her voice wavering with emotion. “She’s always dreamed of attending Harvard, but we just can’t afford the tuition.”

The President nodded sympathetically, understanding the plight of many bright students whose dreams were hindered by financial constraints. “I see,” he said thoughtfully. “And what is your daughter’s name?”

The couple exchanged a proud glance before the husband spoke up. “Her name is Emily, sir,” he replied. “She’s a straight-A student with a passion for learning, and we believe she has what it takes to succeed here at Harvard.”

The President listened attentively, his brow furrowing in contemplation. After a moment of silence, he leaned forward, a determined glint in his eyes. “I’ll tell you what,” he said, his voice resolute. “I’ll personally review Emily’s application and do everything in my power to ensure she receives the financial aid she needs.”

The couple’s eyes widened in disbelief, tears of gratitude welling up in the woman’s eyes. “Oh, thank you, sir! You have no idea what this means to us,” she exclaimed, her voice choked with emotion.

The President smiled warmly, his heart swelling with compassion. “It’s my pleasure,” he replied sincerely. “Every deserving student deserves a chance to pursue their dreams, regardless of their financial background.”

With that, the couple left the President’s office feeling hopeful and grateful for the kindness they had encountered at Harvard University. And as they walked out into the bustling campus, they knew that no matter what obstacles lay ahead, they would always cherish this moment as a testament to the power of compassion and generosity in society.

About the author

Luit

Leave a Comment