Charlene, You’re Not in Undergrad Anymore…

First of all, as I write this post I’m pretty sure there are a million other things I’m supposed to be doing. Like what you ask? Oh I don’t know…like writing a case analysis on the 1998 homeless population in Seattle or studying for a test on Aristotle’s virtue ethics theory. But I’m not. Instead I’m “taking a break” to inform you that this graduate school thing, just got real & it’s nothing like undergrad.

I’m thoroughly convinced that the minute I walked across that stage to accept my diploma and graduate from San Jose State Univ. all my mental and physical stamina in regards to surviving the stress of school went OUT the window. I really don’t know how I survived undergrad juggling (many) late night parties    <--, long hours at work, waking up early to go to various internships and carrying a full class load?! I was INSANE…but I survived.  Fast forward to now and I’m struggling to keep my eyes open past 10:00PM… forget partying late nights and trying to go to work… it ain’t happenin’.

Just a few months ago, I envied my friends that were already in graduate school. I used to tell them “You’re so lucky; I can’t wait to be in school again like you!” Their response was something like “Oh girl, believe me…you won’t be saying that when you get in.” They were right. I’m in my first semester of school and it is testing my patience, concentration and ability to obtain knowledge. Graduate school is no joke. Don’t get me wrong, I’m so happy I’m in my program and I LOVE the curriculum (Thank God)! Cause if I didn't …honey, this would this be a serious uphill battle.

But like they always say “Nothing worth having comes easy.” So to all my fellow grad students:  all the many papers, insane amounts of reading & late night study groups ( accompanied by the coffee/energy drink runs)  will all be worth it when we get to walk across that stage, chalk-full with more knowledge than we started with and ready to once again embark on a new path into our respective fields of interest.

But right now…..for me......that day is two years away, and my current source of satisfaction lies in completing this case analysis and passing my ethics test tomorrow. So until next week …Enjoy the weekend!!