Hi Avery, I think you have brought up a valid point. It does seem to me as well to be a recurring theme. Remember, negative comments are usually made to self validate in order to justify a missed opportunity. Some people see it as a blessing and some will realize that they wish to have the same opportunity as you but if that is not possible the “safe” way to respond is to validate themselves by justifying the mootness of pursuing a DNP degree; and I said “safe” because it is generally frowned upon for anyone to demonstrate jealousy. Because it can be difficult to predict how people will react to my personal pursuits I have kept my admission into the DNP program to myself.