Alumni Questionnaire ← Back to Index
Julie Wheeler:
What is your name?
Julie Wheeler
To which institutions were you sent?
I attended all 3
How old were you?
14-18 yr
When were you enrolled in The Program?
1988-1992
What was the highest level you attained?
4th
Please describe the circumstances that got you sent to The Program:
attempted suicide
In which house(s) did you live?
TKB (EC) Herrick (Marion)
Please describe instances of abuse you experienced while in the program, if any:
I recall vivid memories of emotional and verbal abuse.
Describe abuse of other students you witnessed, if any:
I was there during a sexual abuse scandal (He was forced to leave) I also witness countless times of verbal and emotional abuse to others. I witnessed students being “slammed”
Do you have any good memories of The Program? If so, what are they?
Yes, I have good memories of SOME of the staff. I also have good memories of other students. I loved going to “bamboo falls”; it was very beautiful and I laugh every time I think of poor “Frank Sinatra”, the local who was wackier than we were and sung for us outside of the Rincon (and flashed us occasionally).
What is your overall impression of The Program? Did it “help you”?
It helped me to realize how lucky and spoiled we Americans our compared to other cultures. It helped me have a “special” insight for other peoples problems.
What do you think of the quality of education you received?
I enjoyed working on my own and at my own pace. I do feel the school didn't help my IQ a whole lot. My teacher didn't “teach" me I taught myself.
How old are you today?
31
Did you go to college after attending The Program? If so, what degrees do you have?
Very little, I dropped out when I became pregnant. I went back for a certification class but never used it.
What is your profession?
Floral Trade
Do you consider yourself a Christian today?
Yes
What effect did “The Program” have on your faith?
I went away from the church for quite awhile. I was soooo tired of it being shoved down my throat that it had no meaning for me. I saw Jesus as a power play (staff against student). When I was ready I started seeking a church that I felt comfortable with. This was a very lengthy adventure. It took me 6 yrs to get comfortable in a church after my search began. I have only been going regularly now for 2 months. But I love every minute and look forward to it every week. It was my decision, not the staffs, and a church and pastor I'm comfortable with.
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