Hey everyone!
Can you believe that this is already my third blog post? It feels like yesterday that I submitted my last post. I do not know where the time went. This semester really flew by.
As you may remember from my previous blog posts, I had a lot of ups and downs during the last year. And I got to admit that I focused a lot on the downs and did not see the ups. I realized that this is a problem I have. I tend to see the negative things and fail to appreciate the positive things that happen to me. I will definitely have to work on that more because it will be so much better for my mental health if I learn to appreciate all the good things in my life (or at least appreciate them more than I do now).
For now I try to relax for a little bit after a busy semester. I feel a little burnt out and I need to recharge my batteries before I start the second year of my MA (Second year? Really where did the time go?). Now that it’s finally nice and somewhat warm outside I go on walks whenever I can. My favourite place to go to is Kents Pond. I took the picture for this blog when I was feeding the ducks there. I also love going downtown in the summer time when the buskers are around. With all the stress of being in grad school I realized how important it is to take the time to go to your happy place, relax and look back at what you have achieved so far.
I am also starting to look at where I want to do my PhD. My top choices are in Ontario and BC and I am already dreading a move across the country. This also means that on top of working on current scholarship applications, and doing research for my thesis, I also have to start making a list of everything I will need for my PhD applications. Some of you might think that it’s too early for that but I need to make lists and plan for the next year otherwise I will eventually freak out and my anxiety will take over. I always found that making lists is really helpful. Not only do lists help me organize my daily and weekly routines but they also help me stay organized for the next months. If any of you are struggling to keep on top of your work try making a list of your short- and long-term goals. It really helps you stay focused and prioritize the most important aspects of your work.
Anyway, I hope that you lovely readers enjoyed the latest update on my journey as a graduate student and maybe found some of my tips helpful. I hope you have a great summer! Until next time!