One Month Down

I've been in graduate school for a month now and the time is flying by. I have been in my lab for three weeks and only have two left before I do my next rotation. I have learned so much so far. It can be a little overwhelming at times but it will all be worth it. I had my first exam last week and although I feel I could have done better I don't think it went too badly. I've been working a lot of hours in my lab and it is extremely time consuming but I couldn't pick better people to work with. Although everyone takes their work very seriously, they are mostly laid back and are extremely helpful. They are also quite fun-we spend a lot of time laughing together. I don't really have much time outside of school, but I have made a lot of great new friends through the program. We get together regularly, which can be a really nice break from the stress that comes with school. My boyfriend has also moved in with me, which is making things much easier. I've pretty much settled into a routine here, but living in a big city is definitely different from what I am used to. There are plenty of things to do, but I also have to be much more careful. I think that pretty much covers what is new with me. Hope all is well with you!

In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps. 

Proverbs 16:9

First Week Recap

I survived my first week of graduate school! 

Through a number of meetings and different classes it definitely had some ups and downs. Overall I would say it went well. I have some lab rotations set up that start this week. I am pretty nervous about working in someone's lab that I barely know, but I am really looking forward to how much I will learn. My classes have mostly been review so they haven't been difficult so far. I am trying to stay ahead on all my work to hopefully avoid as much stress as possible. 

I plan on being very busy now that lab rotations will be starting. I have a lot to learn, and I will have to prove myself to the members of each lab so that I will be able to secure a place in one of them to become a part of long-term. It is a very stressful process, but I know that wherever I end up is where I am meant to be at the particular time, and I only hope that I can make a positive contribution. 

There is a lot of uncertainty in my life right now that I believe is contributing to how much I am starting to miss certain things from my past. I also miss a lot of people of course, and it is difficult being so far away. I can't just drive to see anyone anymore-I have to buy a plane ticket. However, this is where I need to be at this point in my life to get to where I want to be. Sacrifices have been made, but I will be a stronger person in the end. 

...For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future...

-Jeremiah 29:11