11th hour freakout

[margarets]

Within the next few days I must hit 'send' on the final bits of my application, including my SoP, and suddenly I feel like my thesis idea is the dumbest one EVER.

 

It's basically about exploring options for dealing with a worst-case scenario.  I'm afraid it's too doom-and-gloom, that it'll make me look like a crazed pessimist.

 

That said, the worst-case scenario isn't all in my head.  There is historical precedent (heck, there's even a show on TV right now about this scenario in a particular place) and no good reason to assume that the scenario wouldn't present itself again. 

 

It's just ... not very mainstream... I'm afraid of looking like a weirdo. (Though I am kind of a weirdo.)

 

Is there a thread on these forums about weird thesis ideas?  Where everything turned out OK in the end?

 

[Mtorey]

     Just keep calm. I'm going through the same thing right now, and it's normal to freak out considering its a pretty big deal. I'm not exactly an expert, but from what I understand, it's ok to be a bit eccentric in your thinking. I'm not sure about your specific field, but I know that for the most part academia is filled with borderline-autistic introverts who think WAY outside the box on a lot of things. The important thing is that the idea is both well thought out and communicated clearly. It's ok to be a weirdo as long as you take the time to really think through an idea and rely on sound logic. If that sounds like you and the idea isn't discussing the implications of a zombie apocalypse, then I think you'll be fine. Don't be afraid to stand by ideas that you truly care about. 

 

     Pep-talk aside, I'm not sure if I know of any threads related to this topic, but I'd suggest you keep looking. At the very least, it'll provide you with a temporary distraction. Best of luck. 

[selecttext]

Unless it is specified, your SOP needn't propose a specific project. Mention the research areas that interest you and why you think they are important. 

[margarets]

Thanks.  My SoP does propose a specific project (the program asks for that, though I know from a previous grad that it's OK to change it a lot).  I have a short paragraph explaining what it is, then another short one explaining why it's worthwhile.  I actually really do think it is worthwhile!

 

I think it's just nerves from the whole point-of-no-return moment that is imminent. 

[VBD]

If you are talking about disaster preparedness, there is actually a lot of state and local gov't interest in that part of environmental studies. So some school programs are actually very interested in getting students to study that. Not many do, so that should make your SOP extremely interesting. 

 

Also, I think everyone starts to panic a bit and second guess ourselves. This is a personal yet harrowing experience with 5 years of your life on the line. But your apps are done and I'm sure you did the best you can. No fear!