Eye-Opening

Mr. Wellen, Esq.,

I have just finished reading your book and I am left in awe of how familiar the story is...or how familiar it could it be. I am currently an undergraduate at Boston University. As a political science major I have, and since high school have had, every intention on attending law school. I am from Long Island, New York and am very familiar with the high-powered, big-shot lifestyle you speak about. It was so nice to read an author with a familiar attitude, from a familiar place, and with a familiar goal. I have vacationed in Long Beach Island, watched the NYC attorneys rush through Penn Station, and I hope for the prestige and perks of becoming a New York attorney. I'm a terrible overachiever, but due to those dreaded standardized tests I have been unable to secure a place in the world of Tier One. Although BU sits on the brink of that coveted ranking, I used to think that despite all of my past achievement and outstanding performance, in a way I hadn't succeded. The Tier's as a categorizing factor can do that. I'm a sophmore now and could not be happier where I am. But at eighteen years old I am young, eager and hopeful. Oh, and ignorant as well. Your book opened my eyes to many things I would not have expected. It has also inspired me by proving that you don't have to be "Ivy League" to do well. I write to you as a fan and as someone who, before even picking up this book, had his sights set on experiencing much of what was written. I never read for pleasure during the academic year, but I picked up Barman at my school's bookstore after it was advertised in the school's daily newspaper. It is that reason why I am so happy that I was able to learn about your experiences with family, the law, women, school, tests and life in general. In short, in my pursuit for the perfect job with the perfect apartment and the perfect clothes, parties, and friends, I will always keep in mind the journey of Alex Wellen.

Fondly,
Phil