Life beyond undergrad...: WOOHOO - what grad school is really about...

So I am done with my first semester after getting my RN license - I guess technically my first semester of real grad classes. They were definitely a "different sort" of classes and I had no clinicals so that was interesting too. I really think I learned "what grad school is about" this semester...it really is about asking questions, seeking out information and answers, problem solving, exploring, and finding your interests/niche. Although grades are important, they don't play that large of a part in your own individual learning now.

We had a project for one of my classes and it was pertaining to Mercer's Maternal Role Attainment Theory (now Becoming a Mother). In a separate class, we had read an article written by Mercer and Walker - and guess what? Dr. Walker actually teaches at UT. I had the bright idea of randomly going to her office to talk with her about the theory. It was definitely a highlight of this semester. Having these resources available, seeking them out, and having an intellectual conversation of mutual interest - what an amazing experience!! And it was all just of my own doing, my own curiosity - and the great thing was was that I was able to hold my own...I conversed with one of the most well known maternal researchers - I could contribute to the conversation and even challenge her thinking! It was wonderful connecting with people and experiencing true scholarly discou

rse. I won't forget it.

Now I have a 5-6 week break before classes start again so what am I going to do with all this free time now? As for now, I am attending multiple holiday parties - wooohooo. I will also spend time with the fam doing Christmas stuff of course. Another big thing is that two of my best friends from high school are getting married in January - so I have a few events for that! I'm also touring new AE applicants around the nursing school and talking with them about my experiences in the program thus far. I really enjoy working with students and can't wait to do it as a job one day!

Break so far: (I don't have a camera anymore because mine is broken....sad days)