It has been a really long time since I blogged and I was feeling that I might never post here again thanks to my own languidness and demanding course work. Looking back at the last few months though, I must confess the former played a much more prominent catalyst in my decision to stay away from this blog. I hope that I do put up posts with more vigour in the near future though as I find it one intellectual investment worth sticking to.
I have had one complete semester of courses and must say that I was completely disillusioned by the same. I was hoping that I would have research work right from the word go but alas, I am still stuck with more courses to conquer till my screening due in may this year. Looking back at the courses I did take up I must say they were not too challenging. I am just glad I got through the semester with the maximum possible grades.
Some tips for novice grads from what I have learnt in a semester…..
- Try to get through the first semester without a job. If you do take up a job, make sure you use your free time judiciously. I am personally of the opinion that one should stick to fewer courses if s/he has a job going in parallel.
- PhD students should try and make sure they get enough research experience right from the onset of first semester. Though I must agree that courses are a much better option for the first few semesters for those getting into a completely new field.
- Attend conferences as soon as they show up.
- Have textbooks/ references with you as soon as the semester starts. They are valuable in any situation.
- Make sure you have membership of all the pertinent organizations.
- 6) Have a completed and updated resume at all times. Make changes as and when they occur.
Graduate education is a rewarding experience indeed. I am looking forward to my spring semester and hoping that I would do something meaningful this time around.
Some good sources of books:
Professional organizations/ societies (check respective websites)
A new beginning
