Fear, thy name is grad school

[justnathan]

I've talked to a lot of you about my desire to go back to grad school. I'd like to go back this year rather than wait another year and feel more lethargic about doing it. Here's the thing; I've already missed one deadline out of the three schools I was interested in. The next one, which is my first choice (Syracuse) is Valentine's Day. I have to

Comments

[copernichris]

As someone who spent three-and-a-half years selling suits b/c he couldn't get his shit together:

DO NOT WAIT TO APPLY. That "being stuck" feeling sucks. It probably has the same potential for putting pressure on your marrage, given enough time, as you simply won't be happy with yourself. Plus, who knows when something like a car problem (or a car payment) is going to complicate things further.

For whatever it's worth, I went through many of the same doubts: I hardly took my undergraduate education seriously, so I was worried about whether I'd be accepted. I was horrified about the tens of thousands of dollars that I would have to pay back. I waited until the last minute to apply, and I had to get everything together while teaching an hour away from home.

If it's what you really want to do, you should pursue it.

[ranalou]

I agree. I'll say the same thing I told Steph: consider the alternative. When you really think about it, going for it is the only right coice to make. You can't let your fears hold you back from life or you'll never grow into the person you really want to be. Facing fears is what makes us stronger. Use them in a positive way to fuel you. When you start to feel afraid, that's when your warrior spirit should kick in ;)
Also, from a relationship standpoint, it's good to remember that having someone by your side is a strength. Trust each other, count on each other, and support each other in all things. Even if those things are chasing wild dreams. Believe it can be done.

[ddr_ho]

Of course you must. Send them as soon as possible, even if they aren't perfect. It really will be harder if you wait until next year.

Pretend it's an application to McDonald's if it makes you feel less intimidated!

[stuffedinvader]

As someone who waited 5 years to even try to get his shit together for grad school... STOP WAITING. Go now, go directly to your desk, fill out the application, get the LoR. Do not pass the bathroom, do not go to work. GO NOW!

Um... in other words, yeah, its better to do it sooner rather than later. I'm so grateful that I'm back in school now and I only have one more year left, and I'm really excited about my future now, and I bet you will be too, once you apply. So... Hop to it!

[baronmind]

Personally, whenever I find myself avoiding something due to fear, I use Zeno's Paradox to my advantage. I say, "This isn't the scary part -- I can always back out later." Then, later, I say, "Well, I'm still not committed yet -- I can quit after this step." Eventually, I look back and realize that somewhere in there, I did all of the hard part already. Each step seemed pretty low-key, though.

So, submit an application. What's it cost you? You can always back out once you hear their response.

[stephie26]

That's exactly what I said...

Get out of my head you brain snatcher!