Domino

Hey all! Since grad school is such a unique and bizarre experience, I've found it helpful and encouraging to connect with other grad students around the country via Facebook. For some reason, seeing and liking silly little posts is a fun way to realize that we're all in this together and that yes, all the sh*t we deal with is actually normal So, any recommendations on funny/relevant/helpful facebook pages to follow as a grad student? I've found these particularly helpful/funny/sad but true: https://www.facebook.com/academicssay https://www.facebook.com/piledhigheranddeeper https://www.facebook.com/gradschoollog/ https://www.facebook.com/WSWCgradschool https://www.facebook.com/researchmark Any other suggestions?

My first semester was incredible- aced all my classes, applied for some grants, worked in a great lab, established a wonderful social and professional network, etc. It was all I could have hoped for and I truly enjoyed [almost] every minute of it But now that second semester is starting I suddenly find myself completely out of steam. I feel like I have zero motivation and am not sure I even want to be here right now. Having 4 weeks off for winter break gave me a glimpse back into the world I left behind- the world of free time, friends, family, a paycheck, etc.- and suddenly grad school doesn't seem quite so wonderful anymore. I'm sure it will get better, but I need to get through this slump. Has anyone else experienced this depressing low after such a high? I figure I should just wait it out and hope that things get better. Thoughts?

Me! Almost zero chance for the NSF or NDSEG, but figured I might as well apply anyway. At least then my chances are almost zero, as opposed to definitely zero.

I currently live in Philly! Depending on which school you're attending and how much you're willing to commute, you might want to check out some of the more suburban areas of the city as well- Bala Cynwyd, Manayunk (a really fun young-adult area), Chestnut Hill, etc. all have really nice places too!

I too work full-time, but I've been in pretty regular contact with my adviser since I was accepted. Not constantly, but every few weeks or so. I've been out of school for 5 years now and want to try to get my brain back into "school mode," so we've talked about things I can work on over the summer- books to read, grants to start brainstorming for, etc. And she's actually coming to a conference here in my city later this summer, so we're going to meet up in person then as well. I don't think you necessarily HAVE to do any prep, but it's nice to get the ball rolling if you can.

I'd leave. Write a really kind letter of resignation thanking this person for all they have done. A little flattery goes a long way, and it sounds like this person honestly did give you a solid leg up in the research world. Sincerely thank them for it, say you have enjoyed your time there, and quietly bow out. Don't wait for things to get worse.

Anyone heading to UNCC this fall?

I'd suggest reaching out to current grad students in the program. You could also ask your program coordinator to get you in touch with other incoming students who may be looking for housing as well. I found my apartment and roommate by simply asking a current student if she knew of anyone looking for a roommate... and she did! It was the easiest housing search I've ever been through.

I so agree with you, persimmony! I graduated from undergrad 5 years ago and have been working in clinical research full-time since then. Work has been stressful at times but it's been so nice to mentally check out at 5pm, head home, cook dinner, and relax! I've gotten so used to doing nothing every day after work, and I have a feeling that will be the hardest adjustment once school starts again.

I was recently advised by my program coordinator to brush up on both methods and stats before entering the program this fall, as those are the two areas that typically cause problems for incoming students. Any recommendations for good books/websites/videos that provide a decent preparation? I've been out of school for 5 years now and could really use a review of the major points.

I am!

I did buy a couple of books to prep for grad school. I've been out of school for 5 years now and I think it's helpful to begin reading some scholarly material, at least leisurely, to get mentally prepared for becoming a student again. I've also started my housing/roommate search, requested that my undergraduate health records be transferred to my new school (they require proof of vaccinations), and gathered some materials to review for taking the driver's license test in my new state (a requirement for establishing residency, which is a requirement for the program). Lots of little things to take care of, so I figured I'd better start now!

I'd suggest retaking the GREs, simply because it's something within your control that you can improve on. And I believe the GREs now let you choose which test scores to submit to your school, so if you don't end up doing any better you can just ignore them. It's basically a risk-free option to possibly make you a better candidate, so I say do it. You don't want to be wondering later on if that was the one factor holding you back. Good luck!!

I was definitely in the rejected-across-the-board club for 2 years in a row! And (not to toot my own horn, but facts are facts) I was a great applicant. Great GPA, GRE scores, research experience, multiple presentations and publication, etc. I was even told by most of the programs that I was a perfect applicant and would be a great fit. But unfortunately it's much more than a numbers game- as much as people may want to ignore it, there's a huge amount of luck involved. You have to be applying to the right program at the right time with the right credentials that has the right funding under the right adviser... and if even one of those things fails, you're screwed. Fortunately, 3rd time was the charm for me. So don't lose hope, and while it's always important to identify your weaknesses and work to improve them, you also have to remember that sometimes, it's just not you. Good luck, and keep your chin up.

Thanks juilletmercredi, you brought up some very good points. I keep thinking in terms of dollars and cents, but you're right, there are many other issues to consider. It may very well be that factors like time and mobility can outweigh the financial variables, and I'll have to think long and hard about what will be best for my situation. Thanks for the input!