Am I second-guessing my thesis topic?

[beboots]

I'm trying to get my thoughts down on paper... and give myself a pep talk at the same time...

So lately, I have been having a super fun time going on field trips: behind the scenes tours of museums for class credit, guys! I love my program! However, in addition to my classwork (especially readings but also research proposals) and TA duties (these

Comments

[avocado_love]

Granted, I've never done a thesis (or research beyond the age of 16, for that matter) so take this with a grain of salt. I am, however, a expert in waffling between projects. ;D

Whatever subject you do decide -- your civil war medicine, automotive history, whatever -- make sure you ask yourself, REALLY ask yourself if you aren't thinking about changing subjects because you're subconsciously trying to procrastinate. (Though there's nothing wrong in changing subjects. History of old cars does sound awesome.)

You are undoubtedly one of the hardest working people I've had the pleasure of internet-knowing, but procrastination can be an insidious brain splinter.

Try to picture yourself a year from now in each scenario. Do you think you will regret pursuing one topic over another?

You've mentioned a supervisor, but is there another mentor-type you could go to for advice? I'm sure this situation is a common one.

And good luck! :D

[beboots]

I had never thought about it that way, but I think you may have hit the nail on the head when it comes to the idea of procrastination. I will DEFINITELY keep this in mind. I mean, I think that I probably won't change my thesis topic because of the hassle, you know, but... yeah. D: Procrastination is an issue.

"Internet-knowing": I love that phrase! :)

That's also an excellent tip, picturing myself in the future with this topic. I will have to think long and hard about it. I think I will enjoy looking at postcards...

I think part of my problem so far is that while I am getting to know my classmates, most of them are just as busy as I am if not more so, so I haven't gotten close with them yet. (That will likely change: we're all in this together!) I'll try to find someone - a classmate or professor - I might be able to speak to about my anxieties at some point. Getting it down "on paper", if you will, really helped.

I greatly appreciate your advice and input. It's good to get a pair of fresh eyes on the situation. :)

[kuiskata]

*big hugs*

I know we've bee talking a little about this via email, but if you want to actually talk to someone... my phone plan (sans engagement, yay!) has unlimited calling to Canada - if you email me your number and when would be a good time to call you (keeping in mind the 6-hour time difference), I could give you a call.

avocado_love has a very good point about procrastination. Also don't forget that you're not alone in feeling intimidated or like you don't have half the research base to work from that your fellow graduate students do. I wouldn't be surprised if most of them feel similarly.

You're one very smart cookie, my dear. I have no doubt that you'll do fine no matter what direction you end up taking re: thesis topic.

[beboots]

D'aww... thanks, pretty lady. :) I appreciate the thought. If I feel like I need to talk my stress out with someone, you'll be on the very top of my list! :) (And I won't wake you up at midnight or three in the morning, either.

[beckyh2112]

*snugs*

[beboots]

Thanks. :) I needed that.