Last January I began my newest and biggest adventure yet in life. I decided to dive head-first into a career change, which involved re-programming my brain into math and science-type thinking.
I spent some time in Houston after earning my undergraduate degree in International Studies working for a consulting company specializing in regulatory matters relating to the petroleum industry. The job was enjoyable, and I learned a great deal about myself and the unknown "real world." I found that I could flourish in this big scary place, and that I was capable of working hard and getting good results. At the end of the day, some pretty great life lessons.
It was also an opportunity to explore what was out there. We did do some environmental permitting and often worked with environmental scientists to gather the required information for such permits. After spending some time with these guys/gals, I learned that that sort of work would be an excellent fit for me. And so, I made the biggest (and scariest) decision of my life.
Now here I am in grad school, pursuing a masters in Geochemistry. Geology chemistry. Looking back at my only half a year so far, I've learned so much and made so much progress. It has been far from easy, though. My first semester involved calculus, chemistry, and geologic field methods. It was a huge hump to overcome. But I kicked ass and, well, built a bit of character along the way. To say the least. Anything really worth having often doesn't come easily. Through the blood, sweat and tears has emerged a sense of accomplishment.
With the next semester fast approaching (tomorrow!), I'm reflecting on my previous semesters. Mostly to give myself a bit of confidence. This next one is going to be a doozy - 14 hours of heavyweight classes and three lab sections to teach. Time management skills will come into play here. Heh! I know I can do it, though, and will emerge on the other side having learned a lot.
And so is this big change a good thing? Overwhelmingly yes. Despite the stress and worry, it's those little moments of quiet when I realize what I have accomplished that tell me it's worth it. Most importantly, though, is the realization that I really am doing something that is fulfilling and in alignment with my values. That I am acting instead of just dreaming.
So wish me luck this semester!
I spent some time in Houston after earning my undergraduate degree in International Studies working for a consulting company specializing in regulatory matters relating to the petroleum industry. The job was enjoyable, and I learned a great deal about myself and the unknown "real world." I found that I could flourish in this big scary place, and that I was capable of working hard and getting good results. At the end of the day, some pretty great life lessons.
It was also an opportunity to explore what was out there. We did do some environmental permitting and often worked with environmental scientists to gather the required information for such permits. After spending some time with these guys/gals, I learned that that sort of work would be an excellent fit for me. And so, I made the biggest (and scariest) decision of my life.
Now here I am in grad school, pursuing a masters in Geochemistry. Geology chemistry. Looking back at my only half a year so far, I've learned so much and made so much progress. It has been far from easy, though. My first semester involved calculus, chemistry, and geologic field methods. It was a huge hump to overcome. But I kicked ass and, well, built a bit of character along the way. To say the least. Anything really worth having often doesn't come easily. Through the blood, sweat and tears has emerged a sense of accomplishment.
With the next semester fast approaching (tomorrow!), I'm reflecting on my previous semesters. Mostly to give myself a bit of confidence. This next one is going to be a doozy - 14 hours of heavyweight classes and three lab sections to teach. Time management skills will come into play here. Heh! I know I can do it, though, and will emerge on the other side having learned a lot.
And so is this big change a good thing? Overwhelmingly yes. Despite the stress and worry, it's those little moments of quiet when I realize what I have accomplished that tell me it's worth it. Most importantly, though, is the realization that I really am doing something that is fulfilling and in alignment with my values. That I am acting instead of just dreaming.
So wish me luck this semester!
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