Well, it is official; I'm finished with graduate school! How and when it happened I'm not really sure... Now before you go assuming I have started taking drugs or simply lost my poor, ever-loving mind, I assure you I have not. What did happen though, I was somewhat unprepared for, exhaustion, sheer and absolute exhaustion. I don't think I realized how tired, stressed, and overwrought I had become.
Fortunately I had time to rest somewhat by only working one job for a few weeks. By the time I rang in the new year with the kids, I had begun to feel more refreshed and relaxed. I actually couldn't remember the last time I had felt this way. It is safe to assume I have been running on empty for a while...
So, how did I make it, survive, finish? I'm not entirely sure! It was not a perfect landing or a particularly graceful finish but there are times we must just be thankful for a job completed. I finished with a 3.8846. Yes, I know it down to the last decimal place! I had hoped to pull a 4.0 but with work, well, I guess I should be proud. More than the grades however, I am thankful for the education I received. My teachers at Charleston Southern University were phenomenal. The program itself was amazing. My family deserves the degree as much as me, as do my colleagues and friends.
I have started my new job as a pediatric nursing instructor; yay! My goal is to stay prn at the clinic too. I want to stay relevant, current and passionate about what I do. I feel that students often sense a disconnect when instructors don't maintain their clinical expertise or have lost their joy. Plus, where would I get all the riveting stories and experiences? Minus the names and identifying information, of course ;)
I have an office!!! Silly, I know but this is so exciting to me. Currently though I feel as if I'm trying desperately to 'hurry up' and get comfortable and capable at my new job. I am not used to being the one without the expertise! This will come however, so in the mean time I must practice patience. Everyone has been so welcoming and awesome.
I have applied to a PhD program; this satisfies the nerd in me :) So we shall see what the future holds...
