The first time I realized that protocol training could propel me in my career was many years ago. I saw an advertisement from an organization called the Protocol School of Washington (PSOW), and it piqued my interest. I did some online research and thought how wonderful it would be to have the opportunity to attend this type of training. At the time, I was a single mother of two growing children with needs of their own. I knew there was absolutely no way I could afford the tuition. So, to express my overwhelming desire to someday attend the institution, I sat down and decided to write the then Director, Dorothea Johnson, a letter. My goal was to simply express my sincere appreciation for the fact that an institution of this magnitude that taught not just good manners but true etiquette even existed. You see, ever since I can remember, etiquette and protocol was something that I thought was absolutely necessary in every day life. I grew up during a time when good manners were something you were taught as a child. In childhood games, I wanted to play 'Queen of England' which was a game where my friends and I would pretend we were subjects of the throne. We had so much fun, bowing in a curtsey, making sure we were dining in royal palace, and all kids of wonderful fantasies. Reflecting back on those cherished times, I thought sending Ms. Johnson would be a way to just say thank you. One summer day several weeks later as I was getting home from work, preparing to do all the things any other parent would do to get ready for the evening, I received a phone call, it was Dorothea Johnson! You cannot imagine my shock. This distinguished woman of the world-renowned Protocol School of Washington (PSOW) was calling me! Ms. Johnson called to thank me for such a beautiful letter. She told me that when she received the letter, she just had to call me to let me know how appreciative she was of what I had to say. She appreciated my sincerity and just wanted to talk to me to let me know how much the letter meant to her. Unfortunately, I did not keep a copy but I can almost remember every word she said to me. She was so gracious and so honest, and I remember telling her that someday I hope to attend the Protocol School of Washington. I didn't know how I was going to do it (and still don't) but I knew that if she had confidence in mm enough to actually pick up her telephone to call me, she must have faith in me. This incredible and lovely woman picked me to give a personal call to. It was an honor that I will always cherish and remember. For me, protocol training could propel me in my career because it is education that one must be exposed to. This training would help me because it would give me the confidence I need to pursue opportunities at the national level. I have always wanted to work at the White House in the capacity of protocol, and this training would give me just the boost I need to be confident enough to put my hat in the ring. Thank you for the chance to win the grand prize of complimentary tuition.