November 2008 Archives

"Why the hell am I doing this?"

Undertaking the PhD is a long haul journey to a very exciting destination. There is no direct flight and several unexpected stops can on the way. While your nice car is sitting in the garage and brand name clothes on your closet, you may be driving a used vehicle and wearing ragged clothes.

This metaphor may applies to several students giving up high paying jobs with the all the prestige that come with it to embrace a future in academia. Challenges during the PhD are expected, however if one keep questioning their belonging, there might be some truth to it. Academia is a lifestyle choice. If you hate that life in graduate school, you're probably going to hate it long term.

"Let me tell you the secret that has led me to my goal. My strength lies solely in my tenacity."
- Louis Pasteur

Graduate school does not mean being genius or succeeding in taking courses. Tenacity is a key word in PhD program and involves "sticking with things even when you get depressed or when things aren't going well". Don't laze around! Keeping a level of discipline will ensure completion of your dissertation.

"Generally speaking, people provide better maintenance for their cars than for their own bodies."
- Scott Adams, The Dilbert Future

How many times I hear and see PhD student "living in their labs". Will they be successful? most likely. Will they happy? Very less likely. Creating a balance by recharging one's battery allow success in the long haul journey. Whether it is a yoga class, hiking, biking, time with family or attending social events, when used in moderation, can only benefit your overall experience.

Since I joined IST, I attended a couple of events organized by two clubs under the umbrella of minority and diversity. The first event was organized by the office of graduate educational equity programs where minority students from several colleges at Penn State attended.  This group plays a critical role in assisting graduate student through their journey by providing resources, support and guidance. Mentoring is provided by senior students as well as minority faculties.

The second event I was invited to, was organized by the Black Graduate Student Association that meets the first Friday of every month to offer opportunities to its members in order to unwind from a tough academic week. Cultural, Educational and professional development services are offered.

Since Our presentation on Monday, I had the opportunities to research several other clubs that I may consider joining such as the Graduate Women in Science, Ballroom Dance Club (Salsa or Tango) and the adult learners of Penn State.