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…]
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…]
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…]
As someone passionate about learning, connecting with new people, and expanding my horizons, I’ve always been drawn to opportunities that challenge and inspire me. This passion led me to pursue a Master’s degree, a decision deeply rooted in my love for the environment and my commitment to addressing climate change. With a background in biology … [Read more…]
What exactly is intersectionality, you might be wondering? Intersectionality is a sociological framework used to understand the social and political identities of an individual and a group when discussing race, class, gender, sexuality, and, most recently, disability. This theoretical framework stems from critical race theory and feminist studies in the 90s to describe how these … [Read more…]
Territory Acknowledgement The province of Newfoundland and Labrador is situated in the traditional territory of various Indigenous groups, and I respectfully acknowledge the diverse histories and cultures of the Beothuk, Mi’kmaq, Innu, and Inuit who have called this place home since time immemorial. Introduction Before undergraduate studies, I was unaware of the diverse Indigenous history … [Read more…]
I don’t think I can accurately put into summation what it feels like being a graduate student. I usually resort to a dark humor-esque analogy when my relatives and friends bombard me with the ever-common question: “So how is graduate school going Meghan?” My favorite comeback thus far has to be: “Moments of sheer unhinged … [Read more…]
Mature students often have the subtle connotation of being luddites. Unable to successfully negotiate the academic world, our pursuits are admirable, but ultimately doomed. At 39, I felt the alienation of a repetitive work environment and the longing for intellectual stimulation and fulfilment. I started by listening to a philosophy podcast (Philosophize This! – It’s … [Read more…]
Going to grad school is a big moment of transition in your life. Just as the transition from high school to university makes room for big changes in your life, so does the move from undergrad to grad. A lot of us move to a different university, different city, different province, different country. Being in … [Read more…]
Hello lovely readers! Since my last blog post I have been accepted into PhD program of choice (YAY!). While I am beyond excited about getting into the PhD program, I also feel a little weird about moving away from Newfoundland. I have been living here for the last seven years and it’s an odd feeling … [Read more…]