My first semester as a Yale graduate student is over. Thank God. It’s not that I am not enjoying my time here, because I certainly am, but last semester was a huge learning experience for me. I experienced lots of growth and lots of growing pains. I struggled a lot and I had to come to terms with some of my inner demons. I came back to school after winter break a better and stronger person. Along with some thicker jackets, blankets, and thermal underwear, I brought back some of the Unji that I had left behind in California my first few months here. I’m ready to tackle this place as the full me. Not the me that left half of herself all the way across the country.
So, what does this current semester have in store for me?
My classes are as follows;
Biostatistics II
Epidemiology II
Data Management and Analysis
Epidemiology of Cancer
Measurement Issues
It’s been two weeks, and while I feel like I am drowning in a sea of readings and homework, I actually really like all of my classes. Everything I am learning is interesting and practical, so I go to school with an eager mind and a bright outlook. The nerd in me wants to scream “Teach me! Teach me! I am so excited to learn!” but I figure that that reaction would elicit some odd looks and the reconsideration of any of my classmates who might possibly want to invite me to a social event. So instead, I just sit in class, pens and highlighters in hand, and absorb.
Work: I got a job as a research assistant for my adviser. I’ll be working on a pancreatic cancer study. I’ll get to learn, build my resume, and have a bit of extra skrilla at the end of the day. Ain’t nothing wrong with that!
Social Life: I made a couple of resolutions for myself this year. The first is to explore some of the cultural events that New Haven has to offer. Despite the snow, and the cold, I want to go out and see plays and performances and museums. I also want to not only get to know my classmates better, but get to know some people outside of my program. This requires attending parties. Hmmm….party? Me???? This may be harder than I thought. :)
Lastly, one thing I have missed dearly since moving out here is yoga. I tried some classes at the Yale gym but I found the environment too sterile for my taste. I looked all over for an Ashtanga studio, but the nearest one is not within walking distance, so that option went out the window. I was adamant against trying Bikram, but after 6 months of no yoga, I got desperate. I went to my first Bikram class today, and while I don’t like it nearly as much as I like Ashtanga it’s the closest I can get out here, so I’ll take it!
All and all, I feel like my life here is finally starting to come together. Things are good, and if I survive the winter, they will be all the better.
