Chapter 403
Chapter 403:
Before Katelyn could dwell on it further, someone approached to tend to Bella’s injury, carefully bandaging the cut. Bernice hovered close, fussing over Bella with genuine concern.
Yelena, phone in hand, rose and stepped outside. Earlier, Bella’s sudden mishap had startled Yelena, causing her to end her call with Erica prematurely. Now, away from the others, she redialed.
Erica answered almost immediately, as if she’d been waiting by the phone. “Yelena, what happened? Why did you hang up p>
“Something came up, but don’t worry about it,” Yelena said, her tone leveled out once more.
“You okay?” Erica pressed, concern evident in her voice.
“I’m fine,” Yelena reassured her. She paused, considering her words. “By the way, did you ever get into that mentor program you were aiming for p>
Kheley University was a tough place—prestigious and fiercely competitive. Everyone fought for coveted opportunities, including mentorships with renowned professors.
A note of disappointment laced Erica’s reply. “No. I wanted to study under Professor Benton Ellis, but he’s so well-known that literally half the students applied for his mentorship. In the end, Jason got selected instead.” Despite Jason’s trendy appearance, which might suggest a lack of seriousness, his academic performance was actually exceptional. He had a knack for breezing through classes—napping during lectures yet acing every exam.
Even so, when Yelena came along, she effortlessly claimed the top spot, pushing Jason to second place. It didn’t seem to bother him, though. Jason remained a legend, admired for his effortless brilliance and easygoing demeanor.
Erica couldn’t help but think that if she’d known Jason was also applying for Professor Ellis, she wouldn’t have even tried. Competing against him felt pointless, as though her application was just there to pad the numbers.
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Yelena, ever practical, suggested, “Then why not apply for Professor Hoffman and join me p>
Erica blinked, surprised. “Huh? But aren’t you not planning to go to grad school? And Professor Hoffman… doesn’t exactly have standout achievements. I’m worried he might not help much p>
Yelena leaned back, unperturbed. “I messaged Mr. Wilson earlier. He said the mentor program is more about us gaining experience than anything else. Sure, the outstanding students might secure a spot for grad school, but if you’re not aiming for that, the program won’t pressure you p>
Yelena had done her homework on Professor Hoffman after she spoke to the university president. Though his profile was sparse, it didn’t reflect a lack of capability. Professor Hoffman was simply reserved and uninterested in self-promotion.
A dedicated researcher at heart, he had an impressive record of publishing high-quality papers in prestigious journals.
The lack of updates in his official profile led many to underestimate him, but Yelena knew better.
If Professor Hoffman weren’t highly competent, the university wouldn’t have entrusted him with such a critical role in the mentor program.
Yelena then shared her findings about Professor Hoffman’s accomplishments, painting a picture of a dedicated and brilliant researcher who preferred substance over showmanship. Erica’s skepticism melted away, replaced by intrigue.
“Alright,” Erica said, a hint of excitement in her voice. “I’ll give it a try p>
“Great,” Yelena replied. “I’ll be back on campus tomorrow. Let’s go together p>
With Yelena’s steady presence beside her, Erica felt her apprehension ease.
The next morning, Yelena approached Lynn to request leave.
Lynn granted it without hesitation, her demeanor almost too accommodating.