In Academia, it often seems like life moves by semesters.
Fall Semester-- new students & football.
Spring Semester-- wintry weather & teaching
Summer Semester-- conferences & playing catch-up on lab work
This fall semester has been particularly difficult for me emotionally.
Heck, the year itself has been busy, moved quickly, and been full of big life events. Some of the events:
I was a stem-cell donor last December via http://bethematch.org/ It was a long and interesting process and one I may write up from a scientist's perspective.
Coming back from the holiday break I had my first major car accident. Physically I was not hurt, but I was two states away both directions from friends or family. And it was a big financial hit.
PhD comprehensive exams: I passed. Major hurdle!
Summer students...
Beginning to apply for jobs and postdocs.
Then this fall, I had to TA. I had done the course before, but having to do it again this fall was unexpected, but required for my assistantship. It took up more time than I expected and I am behind on my research and writing.
All of these things and more have hit me this fall with a vengeance. I have very little motivation. I am constantly worrying about the future, and finances. I am currently forcing myself to make it through the finals week for the class (undergrads get stressed too). Hopefully after Monday I'll regroup and pull it together.
Sometimes existential angst gets to me. Self-doubt. Worry. Heartache. Homesickness. Biological Clock.
It can become overwhelming. Luckily while working through this rough semester, I've learned a few ways to cope.
Running-- I've started to train for a half-marathon.
Finding a quiet place for a little bit-- usually a walk outside can calm a bad mood.
Reading-- Gotta remember your first love.
Twitter-- I started following some of my favorite scientists and comedians. It's inspiring.
Friendships-- Rather than a group, I've been focusing on a few close friends.
Fall Semester-- new students & football.
Spring Semester-- wintry weather & teaching
Summer Semester-- conferences & playing catch-up on lab work
This fall semester has been particularly difficult for me emotionally.
Heck, the year itself has been busy, moved quickly, and been full of big life events. Some of the events:
I was a stem-cell donor last December via http://bethematch.org/ It was a long and interesting process and one I may write up from a scientist's perspective.
Coming back from the holiday break I had my first major car accident. Physically I was not hurt, but I was two states away both directions from friends or family. And it was a big financial hit.
PhD comprehensive exams: I passed. Major hurdle!
Summer students...
Beginning to apply for jobs and postdocs.
Then this fall, I had to TA. I had done the course before, but having to do it again this fall was unexpected, but required for my assistantship. It took up more time than I expected and I am behind on my research and writing.
All of these things and more have hit me this fall with a vengeance. I have very little motivation. I am constantly worrying about the future, and finances. I am currently forcing myself to make it through the finals week for the class (undergrads get stressed too). Hopefully after Monday I'll regroup and pull it together.
Sometimes existential angst gets to me. Self-doubt. Worry. Heartache. Homesickness. Biological Clock.
It can become overwhelming. Luckily while working through this rough semester, I've learned a few ways to cope.
Running-- I've started to train for a half-marathon.
Finding a quiet place for a little bit-- usually a walk outside can calm a bad mood.
Reading-- Gotta remember your first love.
Twitter-- I started following some of my favorite scientists and comedians. It's inspiring.
Friendships-- Rather than a group, I've been focusing on a few close friends.
