The Truth about graduate school
While my content is usually in relation to BIPOC individuals, I am just writing about the general graduate school experience in this one. here is the thing. Graduate school is exhausting. I mean you are constantly reading, discussing, writing papers, developing projects, and doing group projects. It’s a lot. Plus, with a whole job and internship opportunities. The likelihood of having a life is not possible. I am finishing up my graduate school as a counselor in training and while I love my career. I feel indifferent toward my schooling. There are a lot of issues with higher education, especially for black and brown women. One of the biggest things preached in graduate school is the importance of self-care which in theory is fantastic. However, schools are consistently falling short of allowing students to execute it.
As someone who is considering pursuing a Master's degree, it's important to have a realistic understanding of what to expect. While higher education can offer great opportunities and benefits, it's important to recognize that it's not without its challenges.
Firstly, understand that while faculty members may promise a lot, they may not always deliver. It's important to manage your expectations and be prepared to take initiative in your own learning journey. Additionally, if you experience academic abuse, intimidation, or poor support and feedback, know that you have a right to speak up and advocate for yourself. However, it's also important to recognize that not all faculty members may respond appropriately, and it's important to be prepared to handle that.
If you are feeling undersupported and overworked, it's important to reach out to resources available to you, such as academic advisors, counselors, or student support services. They can provide valuable support and guidance especially if you find the right person.
Overall, pursuing a Master's degree can be a great opportunity for personal and professional growth, but it's important to have a realistic understanding of the challenges that come with it. Be prepared to take initiative in your learning, advocate for yourself when necessary, and utilize available resources for support.
Warnings and Tips About Graduate School!
Don’t be drawn in by a school’s flashy promises. Often graduate schools over-promise and underdeliver. Even if they draw you in, do your research and talk with students who will be honest about the pros and cons.
Don’t believe it when schools preach self-care. Learning how to integrate it is important, but know that projects and class work will often overload you, so taking care of yourself will not even be considered. Develop a routine and learn to be flexible, but don’t expect your school to set boundaries.
Establish boundaries for how much of your life you will dedicate to readings, class work, lectures, and more. The truth is that we are often high achievers, and we want to do it all, but we can’t. Find out what is important and know that not doing one assignment or attending one class will not hurt you. Trust me, you can still get the A.
Find friends you can trust and rely on. Seriously find your people. Support, vent, and lean on one another in good and bad times.
Schedule downtime. You need breaks, and often in graduate school, the breaks are few and far between. You must prioritize intentional massages, naps, vacations, family time, etc.
Advocate for yourself. Even though there is no guarantee it will go anywhere, it’s important to set boundaries and speak up. You’re not a pawn for the system but an impactful spirit who can help elevate the voices of others and yourself. Don’t stay in the shadows. Trust me, you matter!
Remember above all else that this is a moment in time. Take into consideration the good and bad times. While you may be overwhelmed with stress, there is also joy. This can help mellow out all the stress you may encounter. Graduate school will end, and this will not be yours forever. Right now is a sprint, but it doesn’t have to be your normal.
Listen! Higher education is a lot.
Hey there, just want to say that higher education can be overwhelming at times, especially with everything going on in the world right now. But it's important to take care of yourself and find ways to manage the stress. I understand the dedication you have to create positive change, and I'm in awe of your strength and resilience. Let's work together to navigate the challenges and prioritize your well-being.
Absolutely, it's crucial to recognize that the voices of BIPOC women are often overshadowed in higher education. It's not uncommon to hear calls for more diversity and representation in academia, yet the work conditions don't meet the standards of avoiding harm and burnout. This is a frustrating and disheartening reality that many BIPOC women face in the academic world. It's essential to acknowledge and address the systemic issues that contribute to this, including the lack of support, representation, and resources for BIPOC women in higher education.
Professionals who have power and privilege need to work together to ensure that BIPOC women's voices are not only heard but also valued and uplifted in academic spaces. Additionally, it's crucial to prioritize our own self-care and well-being to avoid burnout and harm in this challenging environment.
If you are a busy woman, I get it, but we all need some sort of help!
If you need support establishing a better routine for the chaos of graduate school. Health and wellness coaching online is just what you need! Discuss what is working and what’s not, and set achievable goals. You are more than the stress in your life, and change is possible. When you're ready, get in touch with Jasmine, Health and Life Coach who offers online coaching via Zoom from anywhere in the US and Internationally. To get started, follow these simple steps:
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