Rude Awakening
November 4, 2011 by Tellie
Filed under My Inner Kindlings
I’ve taken two tests since I started the PhD program. The first I did alright, the second I failed (for me failing is scoring more than one standard deviation below the mean). I really freaked out. I began to worry about passing the qualifier in June. Then I realized June is 7 months away and I haven’t even been a PhD student for 2 months. I’ve learned alot from this “failure”:
1. Even the best students fail. I think in my case it is due to improper study strategies. Now that I’ve seen a test, I know what to expect.
2. After talking to some second years, it is really hard to do well before the third quarter. (Remember I am taking a class with more mathematically prepared students from more rigorous programs).
3. Freaking out does no good. It’s a waste of time. I think I’ve wasted a good 10 hours thinking I’m some imposter, but …
4. I am not alone in my feelings.
So tomorrow I’m waking up early heading to starbucks and studying my ass off. Hopefully things will look better from here on!
