Journal Entry 8

Shahadat Rahman

English 21003

Professor Nargiza Matyakubova

1 November, 2017

Journal Entry 8

There are several parallels when comparing the struggles of Brad Cohen and Dr. Tyler Sexton. Primarily, they both faced rejection due to their disabilities. When Brad Cohen applied to several jobs as a teacher, all but one turned him down. Most employers questioned his ability to teach due to his Tourette’s syndrome, even though he had a stellar resume. One principal even berated Cohen, claiming that a man with his disability would only be mocked by the children and would serve as a hindrance rather than an aid. This is similar to what Dr. Tyler Sexton faced due to his disability. When Dr. Sexton applied to med school, although he was a straight A student he was rejected from every school he applied to in the United States. They questioned his ability to treat patients, and some interviewers even claimed he would never have what it takes to become a doctor. As a result, Dr. Sexton was forced to go to medical school in the Caribbean.

Furthermore, both men overcame their adversities and became successful at their jobs. Brad Cohen finally received a  job at an elementary school, the place where he would do so well that he would eventually become its first state teacher of the year award winner. Dr. Sexton on the other hand performed a feat that few others are able to do. After completing medical school in the Caribbean, he was able to receive acceptance into a residency program back in the United States. This is a rare feat that few are able to perform, and now that Dr. Sexton works in a hospital in a America, he is a valued member of a team and is succeeding where others told him he would fail.