Graduate school is not a walk in the park. It's difficult and so time consuming. Many things will be learned and many good and challenging roller coasters will come your way. While your undergrad years are filled with adjustment and are kind of similar, the intensity increases. Here are some things I've learned from grad school that might help you before you start your grad school journey.
1. Everything will be fine.
You'll be okay - whether that's in regards to a late assignment, or that one reading response that your TA responded to with a list of questions. Your professor is likely to be more understanding than you think as long as you communicate. And don't forget to keep in touch with your cohort/classmates! Support really does make things better.
Point is: a lot of people that pursue a Master's or a Doctorate are perfectionists and really good students. That's why you got accepted. So, just know that you're probably being harder on yourself and comparing yourself to your peers more than you should be.
2. Quality over quantity.
That being said, quality matters. A lot. You have a 15 page paper and make it to 14 and a quarter, but it has all the information and is synthesized well? You'll be okay. Make sure that you write and say things that contribute and synthesize.
Synthesize is probably the most important word in grad school. Professors want your fresh connections, so don't be afraid to speak your mind and say things that contribute to the discussion (even if you think they might be wrong). Start practicing those literature reviews!
3. Start following grad related social media.
Immerse yourself in Twitter, Tumblr, and Facebook accounts of other graduate students, maybe some in your field. They usually talk about things you're likely feeling too and knowing you're not alone is nice. Lego Grad Student and Shit Academics Say have helped me through difficult moments.
4. Prioritize yourself.
One of the most eye-opening things a professor has said to me is that if you're procrastinating, there's a reason for it. So it helps to be in tune with your body and figure out what you need to make work happen.
Remember: You and your well-being are more important than that assignment. You are worth more than that grade and that grade doesn't determine your value. You have more to offer than that feedback made it feel like.
5. Remind yourself why you're doing this.
When all else fails and you feel overwhelmed with the amount of work, just remind yourself that there's a reason you signed up for this madness. The payout is on the way, just keep going. Maybe these percentages this will help motivate you. That 34% increase for an Education Master's gets me through the rough patches.
During my undergraduate years, I stayed up late without regard. I didn't necessarily listen to my body as often and pushed myself to the limit. It was easy to. But, grad school has made me realize that that's not sustainable. It's better to have a clear head and produce quality content, even if that means being late. It's a struggle and you might cry or feel overwhelmed, but you can make it through.
