RE: Grad Student Support Thread (Full Version)

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ShallbeRebuilt -> RE: Grad Student Support Thread (3/4/2008 10:53:14 AM)

Stampinlady;

Wow, that's a pretty intense reaction. What class was it that frightened you so much? I felt somewhat panicky, too, when I first went back: everything seemed so old/new and HARD--but as I stuck with it I found that it got easier. I'll bet when you go back you'll be fine--feel free to post on here or PM me and we can talk about things until you feel more comfortable.

Musicgal;

Many of us on here are in your same shoes. I'm a widow, 4 kids--three still home and one away at college, and two part time jobs, a house, and aging parents. My university is two hours away, and I drive there three days a week.

It's doable. I also carry the minimum to be full time, but I realize I might at some point have to take less than that. I don't want to, as I will finish in Dec. 09 if I can keep taking full time hours, but my family and jobs have to keep some priority, and if the situation dictates, I'll cut back.

Hang in there, and welcome back to school, and to this thread!

besiderself



rainbowtvp -> RE: Grad Student Support Thread (3/4/2008 11:09:42 AM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: stampinlady
** Update**
I went to my first class, got scared and withdrew.[:(] I got home and almost had a panic attack. Maybe in the fall.


What was it that scared you?

It was difficult for me at first, too.

You might want to look into summer classes as well.

Good luck!

Tara P



rgod -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/4/2008 11:36:21 AM)

Hi Chimes,

I don't know if you visit the board anymore, but thought I'd respond just in case you did. I have felt like that, even though I'm studying for my master's degree now. I keep thinking that maybe I have an undiagnosed brain tumor or something that is keeping me from remembering what is on the page! You are not a loser, not by a long shot. You are raising 3 kids and are making the necessary sacrifices to make a better life for you and your kids; not tha many people are willing to do this. I think focus and studying gets better with practice, so keep at it. You'll definitely get better over time.

Not knowing what to do is pretty common. One book that helped me a lot is "I could do anything if only I knew what it was" by Barbara Sher. The chapters are pretty short and it should kind of kick start you a bit. I'd say, just follow your interests while at the same time thinking about how you can make your interests practical. For example, if you love photography, you could start thinking about ways to integrate photography into a web design career for example or in a marketing career.

I just wanted to encourage you - a lot of people have felt the way that you feel now at some time or another. I applaud you for continuing to keep moving forward in your studies. All the best!

rgod



stampinlady -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/4/2008 5:13:43 PM)

It was an English class and I haven't written a paper since 1982 ! I think it was partially the teacher's attitude and the other students were ALOT younger than I that scared me. I sat next two girls fresh out of highschool. They were very nice and offered me some notebook paper because I hadn't brought any. The teacher asked us for a sample of our writing and asked us to write on our views of the election. That's when my panic started. The class was during the day and someone suggested that I should take an evening one because more adults attend then.

Thanks for the encouragment though.



rgod -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/4/2008 11:18:36 PM)

Yes, an adult class might be the ticket for you stampinlady. Maybe a non-credit one would be a good starting point - just so you can get used to writing papers again, doing research. You might also want to talk to the professor privately - explain that you are coming back to school after being away for 25 years - tell them that you want to ramp up and that you might want to talk with them during your office hours. Go easy on yourself, take it step by step. You'll get there. And don't feel bad. I feel that way sometimes, and I've only been out of school for 12 years. But now I'm getting up to speed. And you will too.



rainbowtvp -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/5/2008 9:25:00 AM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: stampinlady

It was an English class and I haven't written a paper since 1982 ! I think it was partially the teacher's attitude and the other students were ALOT younger than I that scared me. I sat next two girls fresh out of highschool. They were very nice and offered me some notebook paper because I hadn't brought any. The teacher asked us for a sample of our writing and asked us to write on our views of the election. That's when my panic started. The class was during the day and someone suggested that I should take an evening one because more adults attend then.

Thanks for the encouragment though.


I was going to suggest just that! IME this is true, though I have never had a problem taking the classes with mostly (or all) "traditional" aged students. We don't necessarily get buddy-buddy, but they have always been respectful and friendly enough. Often it makes the discussion interesting if you aren't afraid to speak up, because you have a different POV.

Also- don't worry about performance, thinking they have just been through hs, so all this will be easier for them because I have been out of school so long... because professors have usually told me they prefer the adult students because, even if they struggle with certain things, they are more motivated, less whiny, take their work seriously, etc.

But, I can see how it might be uncomfortable and intimidating for a first class.

Tara P



rgod -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/9/2008 9:15:03 PM)

OK guys. It is 9:00 p.m. on Sunday. I am on a committee to round up helpers for a conference. I've got everyone I need (still need to speak with two people) but now I've got to make a schedule ([:'(]). I also have to finish up all of the paperwork ([:'(][:'(]) But I wanted to write.

My first year of grad school is coming to a close in a couple of months and I've had good and bad experiences. But I don't regret a single minute of it because now I know what I feel called to do -- and I didn't before -- not really. I didn't like research - not one little bit - after the first few weeks. [sm=yummy.gif] I discovered lots of areas for improvement in my personal work ethic. [:(] I've got to step up my game in this area. I volunteered to head up a committee for a conference that I don't really care about nor feel like God called me to. Consequently, procrastination has become my best friend. [sm=heart.gif][sm=crazy.gif]

Now for the good news. The conference is allowing me to learn a lot about a new field and meet some interesting people. I have an expanded view of the arts. I've gotten the courage to be an artist and have ideas about how to make a living doing this. I'm developing a solid plan and praying my way through it. I made it through the research project and stuck it out to the bitter end - through criticism and nastiness. (Yup, let it roll off my back! I could have never done that before but God healed me and enabled me to do it.) Although I dealt with a little depression for a couple of different weekends, it was no where near the length and duration of previous episodes. Considering that I've struggled with depression for most of my life and that this was a major life change (moving across the country, leaving all of my belongings, taking a HUGE salary cut, having no family or friends here, living in a foreign country for a few months with only a minimal knowledge of the language, coming back and having culture shock, learning how to study and read again -- I tell you, only the Lord could bring me through something like that!!!!) [:D] I have also started to develop nice relationships with the other students.

I actually have a solid sense of direction (I can't believe it). !Es incredible! [sm=thumbsup.gif] I thank God for that. And also now I know "the ropes" - I know about grad school and it is nowhere near as intimidating as it was when I first started. I know what I need for the next program I'll attend and I'm so thankful for that. This was a great year for me.

So ... what has God done in your life this school year? (If it isn't too soon to talk about it - we aren't at the end yet).

And sorry about all of the emoticons. I just couldn't help myself.



Grace-N-Mercy -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/10/2008 9:20:59 AM)

quote:

So ... what has God done in your life this school year? (If it isn't too soon to talk about it - we aren't at the end yet).

I haven't posted in here in a while, but I do want to respond to this. I'm in the middle of my second semester and just finished my third (8-week) class. I'm sooooo glad to have a little break this week - it's my last break until August. [&:] The writing assignments appeared intimidating at first, but they're good exercises and really help me learn the material. Keeping up with all the reading has been very challenging. This semester, I had four books I had to read. A couple of the books had to be read in one week.

The books in this class were really able to stretch my faith in a way I was hoping for. My daily walk had grown stagnant, but these books really challenged me to have a deeper walk with Him. And for that, I'm grateful. I wish all my classes were like this, but they're not. While they're all Christian, they're not going to focus on my personal walk. But that's ok - I still have these other books and association materials.

The other thing he's allowed me to do is attend a Christian conference next month. I'm excited about what He will do in my life during this conference. [:)]



debilyn -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/10/2008 10:16:24 AM)

This has been a tough semester for me. Reading and vocabulary have been the main focus, and with my active family this is a challenge. However, I have a "B" so far. Yippee! My goal is to keep at least a "B" in all my classes.

I've got to decide what to take next semester. If I take a summer course, it will be daily for a month. That means a tough four weeks with papers and reading assignments. I'm not sure what I would take, but it would most likely be an English class, since that is my major and the other general ed requirements I need are not offered the semester I prefer.

I know that from here on out, even with one class a semester, it will require a lot of reading, papers and research. That can be difficult with three kids at home, two of which are involved in afterschool activities. As a mom, I want to be there when I can. As a student, I'm going to have to be specific as to what I can attend or not attend based on studies. My family is supportive of my going back to school, so that's a plus.

I'm looking forward to the rest of this semester, though. We have a big project to do next. It will require some research with fellow students, which means meeting them at a time that suits all of us. Should be interesting.



mutinywxgirl -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/10/2008 10:18:49 AM)

I will be taking two graduate classes in the fall while studying for my GRE and then applying for acceptance into the program beginning in the spring/summer of 09. I can take up to 12 hours as a non-degree seeking student and transfer them once I'm accepted. That's the quickest way for me to start getting this degree finished and be able to start teaching in my field.



Grace-N-Mercy -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/10/2008 10:27:49 AM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: mutinywxgirl

I will be taking two graduate classes in the fall while studying for my GRE and then applying for acceptance into the program beginning in the spring/summer of 09. I can take up to 12 hours as a non-degree seeking student and transfer them once I'm accepted. That's the quickest way for me to start getting this degree finished and be able to start teaching in my field.


Yea!! This is exciting. For me, studying for the GRE while taking classes would be easier because you're already studying on a regular basis. I'm sure you're going to do great!



Grace-N-Mercy -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/10/2008 10:30:36 AM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: debilyn

This has been a tough semester for me. Reading and vocabulary have been the main focus, and with my active family this is a challenge. However, I have a "B" so far. Yippee! My goal is to keep at least a "B" in all my classes.

I've got to decide what to take next semester. If I take a summer course, it will be daily for a month. That means a tough four weeks with papers and reading assignments. I'm not sure what I would take, but it would most likely be an English class, since that is my major and the other general ed requirements I need are not offered the semester I prefer.

I know that from here on out, even with one class a semester, it will require a lot of reading, papers and research. That can be difficult with three kids at home, two of which are involved in afterschool activities. As a mom, I want to be there when I can. As a student, I'm going to have to be specific as to what I can attend or not attend based on studies. My family is supportive of my going back to school, so that's a plus.

I'm looking forward to the rest of this semester, though. We have a big project to do next. It will require some research with fellow students, which means meeting them at a time that suits all of us. Should be interesting.


A B is great for a busy mom such as yourself. I finished school while my son was still young. It's tough, but you can do it. Just bring your books along with you. [:)]



rainbowtvp -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/10/2008 11:06:05 AM)

quote:

ORIGINAL: rgod
I volunteered to head up a committee for a conference that I don't really care about nor feel like God called me to. Consequently, procrastination has become my best friend. [sm=heart.gif][sm=crazy.gif]


I can so relate to this statement. I have been working on a research project that I have known for months was a mistake and is supposed to be my thesis/comps... but my heart is not into it and I feel God has been prompting me to change this for months... but I

Anyhow... it has become clear that it will not be finished for me to graduate in April [:o] I have bee so depressed the past few days. I haven't talked to my advisors yet. I will likely feel better after I do.

Between problems I have run into with the project, the crazy personal things that have come up over the past 6 months (a few highlights: the house we rent was sold at a sheriffs sale w/o notice, we ended up buying it, a car crashed into the house, our kitchen ceiling collapsed & is still not fixed, my dad & grandmother were dx with cancer on same day, I could go on!). I have truly had more life stress events in the past 6 mos than in the past 6 years! Sigh. I just can't do it.

I could probably finish the paper, but it would require EVERY free moment in the next 7 weeks, and two of my commitee members are being hostile about it, so it is quite possible I could do the work and not have it approved. And I don't know if mentally & phsysically & psychologically I could handle that.

And I have CHANGED in the past few months- my priorities, my goals, my interests. I have become completely disillusioned about research and just don't want to be involved with it any more.

My plan is to come back in fall for one course that will take the place of this research project.

I was thinking that wouldn't be possible because I will have to pay cash & I am starting another program in fall. I realized that I don't need my master's to start the certification program, so I could theoretically, do both in the fall.

I hope my advisor agrees.

quote:

So ... what has God done in your life this school year? (If it isn't too soon to talk about it - we aren't at the end yet).

And sorry about all of the emoticons. I just couldn't help myself.


So... to sum it up... God has shown me direction- by taking away my sense of direction. Does that make sense! I don't know where I am headed but God showed me I was off course & I hope has pulled me back where I belong.

So right now, I feel I am doing the right thing. I am a bit depressed, anxious, worried that it will work out; but at the same time, at peace about my choice.

My other two classes are going fabulously, though!

Tara P



Grace-N-Mercy -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/10/2008 11:10:23 AM)

(((((Tara))))) It's been a rough 6-months for you! I pray you're able to find some rest and make it through to the end. I'll be praying.



rainbowtvp -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/12/2008 9:52:27 PM)

UPDATE:

Talked to my professor and he was very supportive and agreed with my decision.

Have not talked to my boss yet- who is the professor whose data I was using for the project. I have a meeting with her scheduled for tomorrow where we were going to go over my progress, etc. She had said some things about being uncomfortable with me using the data when we haven't been meeting. I really got the feeling (from our other meetings) that she wanted complete control over the project, which bugged me... because I am used to using data from studies where they make their data publicaly available. And I have always been given more freedom in my work.

She also said some condescending things about the program I am in that rubbed me the wrong way... So I just feel stupid going in and telling her I am scrapping the project. I am actually going to say I have found out that I have to come back in fall for a class and that for now I am concentrating on my classes and will let her know what is happening soon or something- haven't really planned it out.

Luckily she is the "silent" boss- the "man behind the curtain." She sits in her corner office which is pretty much secluded from the rest of us and keeps her door closed 90% of the time. My immediate supervisor has a lot of respect for me and we get along very weel-- She is the one responsible for raises and promotions, etc ;)

Talking to my prof took a lot of the fear/pressure off me. After I get this meeting over with and get the class scheduled, etc. I will feel much better, I am sure.

In fact, I feel so much better right now, that I realize just how stressed out I was. I really was at the breaking point. In fact, I laid in my bed crying the other day- I broke down crying a handful of other times in the past few weeks, and I never cry!

Tara P



rainbowtvp -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/12/2008 9:58:59 PM)

Ha ha. I was just thinking- [&:] I don't want any of you who are anxious about starting school to read my posts and get discouraged![8D]

Just learn from my mistakes! My problems this semester (and last one, too, I guess!) were from taking on too much, taking on things I was not ready for, taking on things that I thought would be easier/convenient rather than things I was passionate about, going down the wrong path just because it was the one I was on, even when it became clear I made a wrong turn! And I kept pushing, even when I saw I was in over my head. I could not admit that what I was doing wasn't working! I was compromising my standards in order to finish quickly.

When I was an undergrad, I took on a project MUCH bigger than this and excelled... but I limited my other activities and it was FUN.

Tara P



debilyn -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (3/13/2008 8:44:38 AM)

Good luck, Tara! I wish you the best.



kcot1970 -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (4/9/2008 12:08:09 PM)

[:)]Hello everyone, just stopped in to check up on things. I have been in class know for 5 weeks and all is well, God has been here with me daily, he has given me strength to get things done and a peace above all understanding- I still panic some but I do know that he has it all handled.



rgod -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (4/11/2008 12:31:36 PM)

kscot - thanks for the update!!!! I'm glad to hear that you are continuing to move forward! God is so good - it is really something to experience His presence as you move forward - even if there is fear. rainbowtvp / tara - any updates from you? I was wondering how things were going with you. I hope that things have gotten better - you've been through a lot this semester.

I'm in the home stretch. The research project and conference that I was working on took a toll on me emotionally and also my grades. When it was done, I was depressed for a couple of weeks before I even realized that was what was wrong with me. I'm ok now, praise God. There is one class where it will only be God's blessing if I get a C. [:@]. A C that I've busted my chops to get is one to be proud of ... a C that I get because of failure to adequately manage my time is a totally different matter. But at least there has been a lesson learned - don't get pulled off onto something else - follow God's plan.

I'm still working with my thesis committee chair. I approached another who said that he'd be glad to be on my committee - but he can't be my chair (too busy). My chair is trying to nudge me to develop software. I'd prefer to do a film. There might be a way to do both. But, I've found my niche. I really love studying narrative, stories, and interactive stories. But I'm battling a sluggishness that has overtaken me now that I have a lot of free time. I've never experienced this (I've always had a job continuously since I was 15 years old). It has been a month now and I'm feeling antsy and I'm not being nearly as productive as I'd like to be. Summer is quickly approaching and I have some decisions to make. Work (probably corporate america - the money would be great but it can be a soul-sucking endeavor - I've been there and never want to go back) or to India to help set up a Christian school (for no pay - but of infinitely greater value). So, I really have to pray.

I hope the rest of the semester is going well for everyone. Continuing to pray for us all!

rgod



ShallbeRebuilt -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (4/11/2008 3:56:22 PM)

Ok you non-traditional students...


Help me out with a little prayer, here.

At age 40-none-of-your-business I am leaving this weekend to go on tour with the university choir.

4 days.

30 hormonal twenty-somethings.

1 bus.

[sm=icon_smile_yikes.gif]

You understand?

besiderself



debilyn -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (4/11/2008 5:03:36 PM)

besidershelf - Praying, I am.

rgod and kcot1970 - Keep on goin'; prayers are flowin'.

I'm working on a class project this weekend. Not feeling super good about it, a little frustrated. Been a while since I had to put something like this together. Presentation is next Friday. I know it will turn out okay, but powerpoints are not my strong point. I want it to look good and be informative. [sm=popsigh.gif] Think I'll give it a rest for today and start back fresh tomorrow.



rgod -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (4/12/2008 1:01:29 AM)

Hi debilyn,

Thanks for the prayers! Are you using Powerpoint 2003 or 2007? If you are using 2007, there are lots of great templates included that can help you to really unify your presentation. Regardless of what version you use, you might want to check the microsoft website for templates:

http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/CT101172721033.aspx

Hopefully you'll find something that will work well for you ...

rgod



debilyn -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (4/15/2008 8:38:09 AM)

Rgod,

I'm actually using powerpoint 2002.

I think a rest was just what I needed. I just left it for the afternoon and started back fresh on Saturday. I got pretty much all of it done that morning. I'll look at it again tomorrow and dress it up a little, but I'm glad I took a break. Sometimes a break helps me rethink things and go at it from a different angle.

Better get to the office and get some work done there.

Hope everyone has a great day.



kcot1970 -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (4/20/2008 1:19:16 AM)

My prayers are with all of you.



Grace-N-Mercy -> RE: Older (Returning) Student Support Thread (4/22/2008 8:14:58 AM)

I'm lifting you all up in prayer! This is turning into a tough semester for me. I had an opportunity to attend a conference last weekend and had a great time, then had friends over this weekend and had lots of fun, and am having surgery this week... on top of this, throw in two birthdays, an accreditation site-visit at work and all the prep that goes along with that, and a 6-month-old kitten who is absolutely full of energy and often needs the attention of a 5-year-old child! AAAAaaaaccccckkkk!



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