"Was Grad School the right decision for me?"

I have asked myself that question almost everyday since starting over a year ago. Was this all worth it? Here are some thoughts that ran through my head the first year of Graduate School.

1. It really challenged me

It is definitely different from my undergrad degree, that's for sure. I have never had to work so hard for anything in my life, but knowing one day I'll achieve this degree will be one of the most rewarding things in my life!

2. Commitment

Grad school is basically a full-time job, you have to take it seriously if you want to be successful... but sometimes you just need to treat yourself to a nice bubble bath and relax.

3. Time Management

Taking it seriously means being able to manage your time wisely. You have to know when it's a good idea to pull an all-nighter, go out with your friends or have the Netflix binge-watching marathon of Stranger Things, finally... Or just watch F.R.I.E.N.D.S. again for the fifth time...

4. Saying "NO!"

This is a powerful word, learning how and when to say "no" to your friends when they are having fun and going out. I used to be very bad at saying no to people when they wanted to hangout, go out, literally anything... But being in grad school has helped me learn how to say NO more.

5. Being broke

I rarely have any time for myself, only school but that's okay because it'll be worth it in the end. Right now I have no money, seriously, I'm so broke that it's ridiculous. But I know once I get this degree, it'll help me in the long run.

6. It's "only" two years...

Two years seems like a long time, but in the grand scheme of it, all two years is nothing. Furthering your education and bettering yourself only takes two years, and that is worth it to me.

7. Growing more as a person

Wellllll for the most part... You're constantly trying to figure yourself out but having more time to do that while also growing personally in graduate school helps figure things out a whole lot sooner. And always remember you have a cute smile. :)

8. Coffee

I HATED coffee in my undergrad, but seriously this stuff is magical and I can't believe I didn't realize it sooner. I am always tired in grad school but coffee keeps me going. Honestly can't get enough of it, it's a lifesaver and prevents me from saying dumb things... most of the time...

9. Wine

This kind of goes with #8 except after a test or a long week of classes a glass of red wine has never tasted so good or been more rewarding!

10. I SURVIVED!!!!

The first year of grad school is usually the hardest because it's a huge adjustment, to every aspect of your life. You're halfway through so you can't give-up now!

I've realized that while grad school was extremely challenging for me, it was completely worth it and I'm glad I made the decision to continue my education! And when it's finally all over you'll be wishing you were back in graduate school all over again.... well maybe!?

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