Irony

Chapter two: Trust the processes.

Today in class, my professor showed concern for us. The adversity we have endured by the pandemic has brought much struggle to all of us as college students. Though we are reminded of this fairly often. She explained, it could affect our identity and how we look at ourselves going forward. Professors have accommodated us through these hard times, but made it clear that the expectations were not lowered. We got through this semester despite the circumstances. She went on to say that we will face even worse adversity after college, but knowing the things we have gone through now is a reflection of what we can endure.

Burn out

[burn-out] noun
A state of emotional and physical exhaustion caused by a prolonged period of stress and frustration.

Irony

It's ironic that my research is based on burn out. When I ask others how their semester is going I tend to always get the response of, "trying to get through it." Not only from my peers but from most of my professors. It's the usual check in to see how we are doing or on the serious note of "You all have gone through so much this semester, do not ever let anyone tell you it wasn't that hard." Not only got through it but speaking for myself, had one of the best semesters in terms of academics. I will say, I do not recommend taking 18 credits during a semester with no breaks. Though, it did show me just how capable I am of facing adversity.

What Next

Getting through this semester is worth celebrating. But as a McNair scholar and aspiring grad student that is the last thing on the to do list. Preparing for this summer means making a summer plan. By including what to accomplish month by month as well as what I should be doing week per week. This summer seems pretty hectic with many things ahead but the end goal isn't too far away. Budgeting will be essential by having money be one less thing to worry about. Though I am looking forward to the many opportunities and experiences my way, such as preparing for the GRE, prepping for research this fall, working with my residents at my job, meeting new people through volunteer work, and many more.