Exploring Indigenous Histories in NL: A Settler Researcher’s Journey and Resources for Learning 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…]

The Heart of a Graduate Student

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…]

Graduate Studies as a Mature Student

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…]

Taking Risks and Trying New Things

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…]

The Struggles of Grad School

Hello everyone! What a semester it’s been! The time is flying by, and my seminar is coming up soon. As a requirement for my Master’s degree, I have to present my research to the department of Chemistry in a 40 minute presentation. While, I’m crazy nervous, I’m also excited for it. My research is going … [Read more…]

Enduring the Weather in St. John’s, Newfoundland

I sit here thinking about the biggest challenges that I’ve had to overcome since starting my master’s at Memorial University. The transition to grad school from undergraduate wasn’t too bad: you’re doing more of what you love, but there are higher expectations. The transition is like moving from 3rd year to 4th in your undergrad. … [Read more…]

A time for everything

We hear that short phrase often, don’t we? I’ve got much of it during this interesting third semester at MUN. I’ve been submerging into St. John’s music-educational lifestyle, performing with a few Cirque du Soleil artists as well as other prominent Canadian artists, ice-hockey and opera experiences in St. John’s, and a few more. There … [Read more…]