Initially, I thought writing this particular blog would be the easiest piece I’d have to complete. But alas, I find myself deeply reflecting on my two-year graduate school experience at Memorial University, wondering – where exactly do I begin? Like many international graduate students at Memorial, studying at this prestigious institution demands a good level … [Read more…]
This past week, I had my biannual existential crisis. What am I doing with my life? Am I prepared to move away to pursue a doctorate? Is the student debt worth it? What about leaving my family and friends? Should I quit my job? What if I just got a job and bought a house? … [Read more…]
I am a queer graduate student passionate about behavioural neuroendocrinology-the study of how hormones in the brain influence behaviour. From the start of my academic journey, I have admired my professors’ dedication, fully aware of how competitive and challenging it is to secure such prestigious positions—positions that I hope to hold one day. In the … [Read more…]
When I first stepped into the world of co-op placements as a Master’s student, I didn’t fully understand just how transformative the experience would be – for my academic path, my career aspirations, and perhaps most importantly, my sense of self. Before beginning my PhD in Psychology (Social Psychology stream) at Memorial University in the … [Read more…]
Some journeys are straight roads, predictable and smooth. Mine, however, has been a storm-tossed sea—marked by adventure, adaptation, and an unrelenting pursuit of purpose. From the lively streets of Tehran to the historic charm of Naples and now to the rugged, wind-whipped shores of Newfoundland and Labrador, my life has been a mosaic of cultures, … [Read more…]
Have you ever wondered if studying abroad is truly worth the stress? Applying, traveling to an unknown place, and facing the fear of the unknown can be overwhelming. Saying goodbyes to family and searching for greener pastures—only to wonder if it’s truly greener on the other side—can be emotionally challenging. There’s also the loneliness of … [Read more…]
What does taking responsibility mean to you as an individual? Does it imply embracing the positive outcomes of your decisions, actions, and choices, or does it also require acknowledging the negative consequences, making necessary corrective actions, and learning from them? I find that taking responsibility means different things to different people, but I strongly believe … [Read more…]
Snow days were some of the best days growing up. I remember hearing the phone ring early in the morning, a sure sign that my mother would knock on my door and tell me to go back to sleep. I would excitedly bring the heavy comforter up over my ears and rest. Snow days were … [Read more…]
Student-supervisor dynamics directly impact a graduate student’s academic success, well- being, and future career endeavours. This relationship requires both members to have a mutual understanding of each other’s goals and expectations and to recognize the power dynamics between one another. A graduate student’s intersectional identity and individual needs also shape this unique relationship. For example, … [Read more…]
Earning a professional degree has always been a dream of mine, fueled by my deep interest in forensic and clinical psychology. But my reasons for choosing to pursue a PhD are somewhat unorthodox. Why I Chose the PhD Path When I started my PhD, I wasn’t driven by an academic calling or a passion for … [Read more…]