5 things I wish I knew before grad school
I talk about the transition from u degrade to grad school a lot, and mostly that’s because it was such a shock to me, and I want to help others be as ready as possible!!
the biggest thing for me was probably the change of culture with grad school being more competitive. This is obviously program specific, but for me I was not expecting people to be competitive as they were. This looked like not sharing resources, always talking about how much they were working to freak people out, etc. but the truth is, for there are people that are not like that, and you can start by being one of them. That’s not to say to not work hard and be a good candidate, but focus on being a better version of you, not better than the person beside you.
The next thing is getting on a schedule, and a study routine so for me that looked like treating grad school like a 9-6 when I could! Getting in the routine of studying a bit every day was a hand changer.
You are student so make sure you are getting the perks. The best example of this I have found is student discounts, and using on campus gyms, libraries, etc, which I felt strange about using at first.
Lastly, the hardest part is the comparison between non-grad student friends. I was soooo focused on what they had and I didnt at first that it really made me be in a bad head space. But now I have learned to love the fact that I get to still be a student!!
#lemon8partner #gradschooldiaries #gradschoolife #gradschool #student
Transitioning from undergraduate studies to grad school can be daunting. Most students encounter a cultural shift; grad school environments may feel more competitive than their undergrad experiences. It's crucial to remember that while some peers may hoard resources and boast about their workload, many are just as uncertain as you are. Instead of competing, focus on your growth—work diligently to be a better version of yourself, avoiding comparisons. Establishing a consistent study schedule will prove invaluable in managing your workload efficiently. Treat your studies like a job, ideally devoting 9-6 hours to academics, allowing you to build a disciplined routine. This change can help you avoid the stress of last-minute cramming and instead foster a healthier academic habit. Being a student comes with perks—embrace them! From student discounts on transportation and food to access to university gyms and libraries, make the most of what your institution offers. At first, some of these amenities might feel awkward to utilize, but they're there for your benefit. Lastly, it's normal to struggle with comparisons to friends who have entered the corporate workforce. While they may seem successful, remember that you enjoy unique advantages, such as flexibility and academic exploration that can lead to rewarding careers. Focus on your path and learn to appreciate the opportunities that come with being a student. Everyone's journey is different, so celebrate your experience in grad school!
omg that library is stunning esp the ceilings