Thank you for this. I just got accepted into a PhD program in Ecology and just finished my Bachelors. I plan to study disease ecology and infectious disease modeling.
As someone who is swallowed up in the middle of the "tunnel," I really appreciate your tips. It's such a comfort to hear that feeling totally inadequate is not unusual - thank you!
start my PhD program tomorrow so as my anxiety suggests, I am here watching all TH-cam videos from people who have been there. Thank you for your honest advice.
Really liked your video. I’m in my masters now and made the choice to do the following: *go part time *cash flow classes These formats worked well for me as I work full time and want to balance being married and other parts of my life. I’d also second what you said - have your grad work be of interest and take you somewhere. I’d advise against grad school to just be in school career research is so important. For me I envision my masters to allow me to work for a college serving students plus the option to adjunct teach. Thanks again!
I just accepted admission to a 2 year masters program. This made me both excited and less nervous (also thankful that my program is only 2 years) Thank you!
I'm in it. Im worried always that I won't finish. I haven't found much support from the school. I wish I had more time for obtaining counseling but I'm so overbooked. Just a semester and a half though. More is done than is left to complete. My mantra is it always seems impossible until it's finished.
Thank you, Dr. Enthusiast, for making this video. I"m much older than most "college students", in my senior year and about to obtain my B.S. in Rehabilitation Services and accepted into the M.S. in Counseling with an Option in Rehabilitation Counseling. Low and behold, I truly enjoyed my last three years in college, compared to my jr. college years bouncing around from community college throughout the local district. In any case, no that I'm in my senior year, I realized that my B.S. was not going to allow me to move further ahead in my career path, which I came to consider and apply to graduate school (at my current campus) and recently came to find out that I was accepted!...Yes, this was very exciting when I received this email at 4:00 am about two weeks ago. As I get closer to graduation date and coming to realize that I'll begin graduate school this Fall 2018, this is making me think if I'm "really smart enough" to be in the program. Just being honest, I'm having second thoughts and getting worried about being in that mix of students who are smarter than I am. As I get closer to "Final Exams", I'm getting very anxious and nervous. Actually, beginning the program in the fall than graduating itself. I began to google a few key words about being "ready for graduate school" and found your video. And I simply want to say; Thank you. Thank you for being honest and humble about sharing your thoughts and experience. Two or three years from now, I'll look back and this moment to reflect on my thoughts as to how I felt during this moment. 04/21/2018!
Thanks a lot, this is really helpful.. from a poor physic PhD student struggling on the way... I hope one day I can look back the whole journey without regrets..
This meant a lot. Seriously thank you, your advice gave me great relief, and have been internalizing how I was not as smart or felt not worthy. This made me realize I am good enough.
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching and commenting. You ARE good enough, and you'll get through, one way or another. It's tough, there's no way around that. Hang in there, and ask for help if and when you need it. Best wishes!
I just found this video and I really love it - your advice, your personality, and the happy familiarity of a vlogbrothers-esque style of presentation. I'm currently struggling through my 2nd year of grad school (very, very deeply in the tunnel. I literally just told someone I don't even know where to look for the light at the end of it anymore). I appreciate your advice and am also so happy to find someone else in the field of child development and learning! Happy to be a new subscriber!
Thanks for watching and for your comment! I'm glad you enjoyed the video and found it useful. I'm sorry to hear you're in the middle of the tunnel - it's definitely not a fun place to be. But do know that it does pass as you keep putting one foot in front of the other. You've got this!
Thank you for making this video! I am currently working on my M.A. thesis and also contemplating to apply for a PhD programme abroad. It is really hard to make up my mind about all these stuff when I should be at least able to explain 'what anthropology is' ...
Thanks for watching! Yeah, talking about what you study can be hard. It's taken me YEARS to come up with a decent explanation...you're not alone in that!
I love that you cited your sources of support like Dr. Who! Great blog! The relearning after grad school is so important! It took me at least a year to recover and to feel of worth.
Raquel Cowell I distinctly remember talking with you about the recovery from grad school thing, which is what made me certain that it was not just me, that it's a real thing that happens to everyone. Hurrah grad school recovery!
Love this video! I'm working on my MS currently, the parts about feeling like you won't measure up totally mesh with some of my experiences. Doing research is sometimes challenging, but always get excited when my advisor hands me something even more difficult because "I can handle it" ha! Grad school is full of ups and downs and you've defiantly captured that with this video. Great work!
This is video is so cool! I'm starting my masters in a few months (in my country is a requisite before phd) and I'm extremely excited and scared at the same time. I've always been academically talented (whatever that means) but I'm horrible at being a responsible human being. Making a routine sounds impossible and I don't even know that much compared to my peers. I think I'm just lucky to comprehend things quickly without that much effort, but it sucks to be always procrastinating and suffering the mental consequences. I really really want to put in the work for my masters and this video was so nice to hear. Like, yeah! Working hard and feeling dumb sucks but it feels soooo good at the end of the tunnel!
Thank you for making this video! It helped quiet some of my anxieties for now. I just started my PhD in cognitive psychology. Some days I'm super motivated and excited and other days I'm negative and pessimistic. But, I know I made the right decision because I love what I'm studying/researching. I just need to focus on that :)
Thanks for watching and commenting! Yeah, the struggle is real, that's for sure. But just keep putting one foot in front of the other and focus on that passion you feel for your subject and you'll get through!
Needed this. Currently stumbled upon your channel while studying Bio Bases of Psychotherapy in my own graduate program. IT'S TOUGH!!! But this was an extra push to keep the faith.
Oof, yeah imposter syndrome is so real and a hard thing to shake. I still struggle with it several years out of grad school in the "real world." That said, I think when you're feeling imposter-y remind yourself of your skills, and your "why" - why are you doing this grad school? What's your goal? Taping into your passion, and your strengths can help push back on those imposter feelings. Best of luck in your program!
I came for the SG1 novel and tardis mug.. also because I finished my first year of graduate school and I'm contemplating my life choices. I am working full time and by pure luck managed a 3.5 GPA this year. I'm unsure of my ability to repeat this miracle.
Yes! A fellow Doctor Who and SG1 lover! :) Graduate school is hard, there's no way around it. And adding working full time on top of it is A LOT, I imagine. Reflection on those choices is not a bad thing, and if it brings you to the conclusion that it's too much right now, I'm here to tell you THAT'S OKAY. Exploring some other options (can you work part time? can you pause the degree for a while?) doesn't make you a failure by any means. And whether they'll admit it or not, many other grad students around you are wrestling with the same questions. At the end of the day, I'm a big proponent of doing things for the right reasons and not making yourself sick in the process. Good luck - these aren't easy life decisions to wrestle with, but they're worth it!
Hard to remember there are other routes than the traditional ones set in your field. I also want to do something different with my MA so thanks for reminding me of that. I have a great support system and I know I'm not alone. Just need to keep remembering that. Thanks! Much love!
Yeah, stepping off the pre-destined path is probably one of the hardest things to do. But there's a big wide world of all kinds of opportunities out there. Don't let others' fear of the unknown dictate your path. Good luck! You got this! :)
Thank you for reminding me about why I wanted to go to grad school: to be able to learn new information, and analyse it, and synthesis it, and to communicate about it knowledgeably. I failed grad school three years ago, but I'm coming back next month!
Great tips! I was recently accepted to UCI to pursue a Master of Urban and Regional Planning degree, and I know this path is the most sensible and viable choice for me given my love for Environmental Planning and Sustainability. I'm sure a positive attitude and a dedicated focus go a long way in defining one's success at this level.
+Andy Dunlap Thanks for watching and commenting. Sounds like a cool program. Positive attitude certainly helps, but don't be afraid to get frustrated sometimes - that is an okay and perfectly normal part of graduate school, and sometimes those moments of frustration are when the biggest learning moments happen. Best of luck!
I am in year 5 of grad school but I have just transferred to a new school with my research group. In some ways it feels like I am starting over. I don't know when I'm going to finish so the tunnel feels really long. Also, I feel dumb all the time! BUT I know that I'll get through and it will be worth it. Great video - thanks for your inspiration!
Thanks for watching and commenting! Ugh, that sounds really hard. Navigating a new system can be really hard, especially when you were just mastering the old one. Just keep puttin' one foot in front of the other and focus on that tiny pinpoint of light at the end of the tunnel and you'll get there. Best of luck!
Thank you for sharing. This help me a lottt. I am new at graduate student,right now. I feel so dumb and feel bad about myself. But now i feel relief. ❤️ 🙏
I'm a second year masters student in what is supposed to be a two and a half year program....without any class flexibility, electives, or ability to graduate on time without taking a full course load every semester. You could say I'm in that tunnel, and I'm claustrophobic. Watching your video however helps some to remind me there is a light somewhere, and once I get through this year I'm sure I'll see it again.
Thanks for watching and commenting - my apologies for not replying to this sooner. I'm sorry to hear you've been in the tunnel. It's such a hard place to be. I hope you've begun to see the light and make your way through. Best wishes!
I’m about to embark on a doctoral degree program in Psychology (yay!) and I’m trying to figure out what to expect and how to establish a routine. Your videos have been informative and morale boosting. Thank you for posting them!
I'm definitely in the breaking down stage of grad school.. it's comforting knowing that it has a purpose and will build me back up eventually.. hopefully... lol I do feel incompetent at times but this too shall pass!
+Queen D That's probably the worst time during graduate school, and there's not much to be said about it other than it's painful and frustrating. But like other challenges in life, it has its purpose in helping you grow and learn new things, though I know that's really hard to see it that way when you're in the midst of it. :-/ Hang in there!! You got this!
Thanks for your honest and inspiring videos!!! I'll start my grad school this fall in a totally new and challenging environment. I feel nervous even thinking about how I could cope with academic stress plus learning a new language since a few of my courses are not taught in English. However, watching your videos really alleviate my anxiety and nervousness. Thanks a lot!
Oh good! I'm glad to hear you found this helpful! Grad school is tough, there's no way around that, but if you keep putting one foot in front of the other, you can get through it. :-) Best of luck!
Hi Sara! I am starting Grad school for my masters in Social Work. I am about 2 weeks out from the start of the semester and sort of freaking out. The self doubt, question why I'm spending all this money and so many other negative feelings are spiraling through my head. Thanks for this video, although I am still Freaking out- I feel a little better and had a laugh, (I must get a funny mug.) Anyway on to more freaking out
Thank you so much for this video! I am currently applying to Social Psychology PhD Programs and there are a very limited number of youtubers who discuss graduate school!
Thank you for this Video. I'm currently in my Final year of M.S in Engineering and as the thesis deadline is approaching i'm getting nervous day by day.I too have the same feelings as mentioned in the video that i really fell i'm the most stupid person not just in my lab but in my entire department and everyone around me is really smart. So this constantly scares me and i feel like i may not be able to graduate. So thank you once again for making this video. Hopefully everything goes well and i'm able to graduate !!
+raj j It's tough feeling like everyone around you is smarter than you are. But you are definitely not alone in that feeling. It's a rough time, but you'll get through. Best of luck with the thesis!
Thanks for watching and commenting! Grad school is tough, and feeling apprehensive is normal. But just remember, everyone else is also apprehensive, even if they don't say so. Best of luck!
just started my second semester of grad school and am currently a full time student along with mandatory lab hours for my graduate research assistance position to work on my thesis, 20 hrs a week. This will be a long semester :' ))
I am starting my MLIS in January. This is me trying as much as possible to be prepared. I haven't been in school for 20 years, so I am struggling to remember how to school. That part about internalizing your own incompetency is me already. I can't even believe I got in to this top-ranked program. How will I ever finish it? Thanks for your video.
I get the feeling of re-entering school being scary and overwhelming. But try to give yourself permission to stumble a bit as you get your school-legs back under you. You'll figure out what works for you and your life. Dirty little secret? The ONLY program I got in to for graduate school was the top ranked one - none of the "back up schools" I applied to accepted me...so yeah, I definitely understand the feeling of "I so don't belong here." But that too shall pass, slowly, as you get the hang of things and learn that your fellow classmates, and all your professors, are people too. :) Best of luck! You can do it!
I'm having anxiety about how behind from the proffessors I am, now on my graduation. It's not about the grades, to become an intellectual looks like a bad joke , "who do you think you are to..." . This was a awesome video for me, there is not only me freaking out over this kind of thing.
+Talyta Barcelos Yes - you are by no means alone in your feelings! It's quite common for people to feel a bit like imposters in their field, even after having spent years studying something so deeply. That feeling does eventually pass as you continue to learn and grow. Best wishes as you continue your journey!
Hey, I just saw this video and your channel for the first time. First of all, I really love the video! Made me smile even when I'm worried about the future. I'm currently starting my second semester of Junior year as an undergraduate. This is the time I have to start taking the GRE, thinking about grad school, all that stuff. I work in a research lab right now and I know that while I enjoy research and enjoy my job, I don't want to be in academia for the rest of my life. My bachelors will be in microbiology, and my graduate probably immunology if I go that path. What other sorts of things can I do with my life with a masters besides academia? Thanks!
Thanks for watching and commenting! The great thing about most Master's degrees is they prepare you for jobs outside of academia. I'd say there are any number of directions you could go with a Master's degree. It's actually harder to break out of academia after you get a PhD because your training is so specialized. With a Master's there's much more flexibility and given your interests, I'd say medical industry would be a great place to look. I'll also put in a plug for an upcoming Google Hangout I'm having with Dr. Erica Jordan who's going to be talking about all the things undergraduates like you should be thinking about now to prepare for graduate school...it'll be here on my channel Monday March 6th at 11am CT, so feel free to come join us if you can!
I have been feeling SO STUPID lately. I feel like I do such stupid things like formulated a hypothesis incorrectly, forgot to pick up samples which disappointed a committee member and have answered “I don’t know” a few times when asked why I selected a certain methods. So hopefully I can hear other stories of the stupid things done during grad school so I don’t feel the need the drop out 😅
I'm contemplating graduate school. I'm thinking of earning a masters of library science. what scares me the most is the difference in teaching compared to undergraduate. my senior year of college I was told by a grad student that in grad school, a professor will assign a paper and provide no instruction leaving it up to the student. If you could provide some insight into this I would apciate it.
+Jason Mims Thanks for watching! This is a tough one. Unfortunately, this varies a lot from professor to professor and program to program. In general, graduate programs tend to be more self-directed than your undergraduate studies. There's an expectation in graduate school that you have figured out how to be a successful student, and can apply those skills readily in the area you're most interested in. That said, there are a lot of places on most campuses that can provide additional assistance if you're concerned about your writing, and I'd even suggest reaching out to the professor to get more insight into what they're looking for and how you can be successful in the course. I'll actually be uploading a video later this week that's an interview with some current graduate students on their insights into writing tips, as well as what they wish they'd known before going to graduate school that you might find useful - check back later this week! Above all though, I'd encourage you to not let your wariness about the unknown prohibit you from considering graduate school. It can be difficult, but most people I talk to say it's worth it in the end. Good luck!! :)
This was really helpful and comforting, thank you. I'm in the last 6 months of my PhD. I really like the tunnel metaphor. I feel like I can see the light, but that the task of my thesis is just too big so the light also feels unreachable. But, it's got to be done!
I'm glad you found it helpful. The last 6 months is perhaps the hardest to push through, but you're SO CLOSE! 🙌 Best wishes for the last few months of your program!
I just started an M.Ed. Program in Nutrition Education this month. Do you have any tips on applying to a Ph.D. Program after the Master's Degree? I want to put my best foot forward starting now.
Great question - the biggest thing is getting any research experience and written publications you can. If that's not possible, then getting a variety of experience (volunteering, work, internships, etc.) in your field of study can be really helpful. Basically PhD programs are looking for people who are passionate, and have a track record of doing well not only in classes, but in other things related to the PhD life (research, writing, collaboration, etc). Hope that helps!
Quick question! So you mentioned that you went directly from a senior in college to phd. How was that transition for you? Compared to, lets say, somebody who went to get their masters degree before phd? Did you feel as if you missed something or did you felt "smarter" in a way because you didn't have to go trough masters?
Thanks for your question! This is tough to answer...at the time I felt like there wasn't really another easily laid out option other than graduate school that made sense for me. However, being in a cohort of others who had spent years working, or had done master's degrees did sometimes make it feel like I was a little behind because I just didn't have the same degree of knowledge and experience that they did. I didn't really feel like I was having to "catch up," but others around me with more experience were definitely sharper, had more refined answers, and had more base knowledge of the content area than I did, especially early on. That said, grad school isn't really about how well you know the content. It's about hard work, problem solving, questioning, and learning A LOT in a very short amount of time. If I had it to do over, I might think a little harder about taking some time in between to really explore and learn more about what I really wanted to do, but I can't say that that would have been the right decision either. It would have taken me in a different, but not necessarily better direction. Hope that helps!
how do you deal with not being perfect. ie not cleaning your apartment or not registering for insurance etc. I feel like I have no time for anything even though I procrastinate.
Thank you for your video! BTW do u think that I should get a decent grade (above 3.5) to go to grad school? Since I want to have a lot of extracurricular experience, I was kind of concerned about my GPA and it bothers me to do something that enjoys me to feel college life. I want to hear your opinion. (my current gpa is 3.6 in Iowa state)
+Keonhwi Lee Thanks for watching and for your comment! In general, GPA becomes less important the further you get along in your career. But if you're still in college and looking at going to graduate school, I'd suggest keeping your GPA relatively high. With a 3.6 I'd say you're in good shape. However, what's more important are those extracurricular experiences you talk about. So maybe you volunteer in a research lab, or work for the college newspaper, or are a leader in a campus organization, etc. Those kinds of experiences, especially ones that are related to the graduate degree you'll be seeking, are what make you stand apart from other applicants. For example, I can pretty safely say that I would not have gotten into the graduate school I did if I hadn't done a summer research program while I was an undergraduate. High GPA or not, those experiences are what set you apart. But you also shouldn't let your GPA slip too much while you're trying to do all these other things either. It's a (really tough) balancing act. Best of luck!!
Great video..Thanks :-) I have a doubt.....that I am getting a scholarship for studying in a masters program with 67%,whereas below 68% in masters program is considered fail :-0 ..I am really confused.Can anyone help.BTW i am talking about canadian universities.
Thanks for watching! As for your question, I'm not sure as I'm in the US not the Canadian system, but I'd reach out to someone at your school to inquire (maybe in the graduate school office? or your department?) Good luck!
I never went to college because I was afraid to ask anyone at the time because I was afraid to ask because I was afraid that they were going to say you're not smart enough because of the education that I got in school because I got put in a special ed class do to my disability and my stepdad the one who repeatedly physically and emotionally abused me for years also ones told me that I didn't have any brains for it but he is a mean person and a terrible human being who failed in college himself his specialty was physical stuff like heavy lifting and auto machines I know that I could have probably been successful in college if I really had a passion for it despite my disability
So you can go to graduate school for a Master's or PhD degree (or other professional degrees like JD, MD etc.) Anything after a bachelor's degree is generally referred to as graduate school and we refer to "post-graduate education" as anything after completing the undergraduate degree. The difference between Masters and PhD usually lies in the amount of time, focus, and requirements for completion. We like to make it nice and confusing in academia...
Thank you for this. I just got accepted into a PhD program in Ecology and just finished my Bachelors. I plan to study disease ecology and infectious disease modeling.
Congrats! Sounds interesting - best of luck with the grad school experience!
How do you like it so far? Just curious
As someone who is swallowed up in the middle of the "tunnel," I really appreciate your tips. It's such a comfort to hear that feeling totally inadequate is not unusual - thank you!
+Kathleen Creech Yeah, it's rough, but you will get through!
start my PhD program tomorrow so as my anxiety suggests, I am here watching all TH-cam videos from people who have been there. Thank you for your honest advice.
I remember that feeling. It's awful, but it passes, little by little. Best of luck as you get into the swing of a new normal!
So real...
How has it been so far? Are you in the tunnel?:p
Really liked your video. I’m in my masters now and made the choice to do the following:
*go part time
*cash flow classes
These formats worked well for me as I work full time and want to balance being married and other parts of my life.
I’d also second what you said - have your grad work be of interest and take you somewhere. I’d advise against grad school to just be in school career research is so important.
For me I envision my masters to allow me to work for a college serving students plus the option to adjunct teach. Thanks again!
I just accepted admission to a 2 year masters program. This made me both excited and less nervous (also thankful that my program is only 2 years) Thank you!
Congrats on your acceptance! I'm glad this video helped you feel better about it - best wishes!
I'm currently in my third semester of my 2-year master's program. This video gave me joy while feeling stressed lol.
I'm in it. Im worried always that I won't finish. I haven't found much support from the school. I wish I had more time for obtaining counseling but I'm so overbooked. Just a semester and a half though. More is done than is left to complete. My mantra is it always seems impossible until it's finished.
Thank you, Dr. Enthusiast, for making this video. I"m much older than most "college students", in my senior year and about to obtain my B.S. in Rehabilitation Services and accepted into the M.S. in Counseling with an Option in Rehabilitation Counseling. Low and behold, I truly enjoyed my last three years in college, compared to my jr. college years bouncing around from community college throughout the local district. In any case, no that I'm in my senior year, I realized that my B.S. was not going to allow me to move further ahead in my career path, which I came to consider and apply to graduate school (at my current campus) and recently came to find out that I was accepted!...Yes, this was very exciting when I received this email at 4:00 am about two weeks ago. As I get closer to graduation date and coming to realize that I'll begin graduate school this Fall 2018, this is making me think if I'm "really smart enough" to be in the program. Just being honest, I'm having second thoughts and getting worried about being in that mix of students who are smarter than I am. As I get closer to "Final Exams", I'm getting very anxious and nervous. Actually, beginning the program in the fall than graduating itself. I began to google a few key words about being "ready for graduate school" and found your video. And I simply want to say; Thank you. Thank you for being honest and humble about sharing your thoughts and experience. Two or three years from now, I'll look back and this moment to reflect on my thoughts as to how I felt during this moment. 04/21/2018!
Thanks for your comment - I'm so glad you found this helpful! Best of luck to you as you begin your graduate school adventure. :)
I'm in a master degree. I identify with the part of the tunnel part and also feel more dumb that my others students.
That's what I said to my supervisor during my MSc.... Then I decided to go for a PhD and a second MSc.... Apparently, I'm a masochist... Good luck! :)
Thanks a lot, this is really helpful.. from a poor physic PhD student struggling on the way... I hope one day I can look back the whole journey without regrets..
I'm glad you found it helpful. It's a hard road, but a rewarding one!
Good luck!
This meant a lot. Seriously thank you, your advice gave me great relief, and have been internalizing how I was not as smart or felt not worthy. This made me realize I am good enough.
You're so welcome! Thanks for watching and commenting. You ARE good enough, and you'll get through, one way or another. It's tough, there's no way around that. Hang in there, and ask for help if and when you need it. Best wishes!
I just found this video and I really love it - your advice, your personality, and the happy familiarity of a vlogbrothers-esque style of presentation.
I'm currently struggling through my 2nd year of grad school (very, very deeply in the tunnel. I literally just told someone I don't even know where to look for the light at the end of it anymore). I appreciate your advice and am also so happy to find someone else in the field of child development and learning!
Happy to be a new subscriber!
Thanks for watching and for your comment! I'm glad you enjoyed the video and found it useful. I'm sorry to hear you're in the middle of the tunnel - it's definitely not a fun place to be. But do know that it does pass as you keep putting one foot in front of the other.
You've got this!
Thank you for making this video! I am currently working on my M.A. thesis and also contemplating to apply for a PhD programme abroad. It is really hard to make up my mind about all these stuff when I should be at least able to explain 'what anthropology is' ...
Thanks for watching! Yeah, talking about what you study can be hard. It's taken me YEARS to come up with a decent explanation...you're not alone in that!
I love that you cited your sources of support like Dr. Who! Great blog!
The relearning after grad school is so important! It took me at least a year to recover and to feel of worth.
Raquel Cowell I distinctly remember talking with you about the recovery from grad school thing, which is what made me certain that it was not just me, that it's a real thing that happens to everyone. Hurrah grad school recovery!
Love this video! I'm working on my MS currently, the parts about feeling like you won't measure up totally mesh with some of my experiences. Doing research is sometimes challenging, but always get excited when my advisor hands me something even more difficult because "I can handle it" ha! Grad school is full of ups and downs and you've defiantly captured that with this video. Great work!
This is video is so cool! I'm starting my masters in a few months (in my country is a requisite before phd) and I'm extremely excited and scared at the same time. I've always been academically talented (whatever that means) but I'm horrible at being a responsible human being. Making a routine sounds impossible and I don't even know that much compared to my peers. I think I'm just lucky to comprehend things quickly without that much effort, but it sucks to be always procrastinating and suffering the mental consequences. I really really want to put in the work for my masters and this video was so nice to hear. Like, yeah! Working hard and feeling dumb sucks but it feels soooo good at the end of the tunnel!
Thank you for making this video! It helped quiet some of my anxieties for now. I just started my PhD in cognitive psychology. Some days I'm super motivated and excited and other days I'm negative and pessimistic. But, I know I made the right decision because I love what I'm studying/researching. I just need to focus on that :)
Thanks for watching and commenting! Yeah, the struggle is real, that's for sure. But just keep putting one foot in front of the other and focus on that passion you feel for your subject and you'll get through!
Needed this. Currently stumbled upon your channel while studying Bio Bases of Psychotherapy in my own graduate program. IT'S TOUGH!!! But this was an extra push to keep the faith.
Glad you found this helpful! Best of luck with your program!
Thank you for bringing up the point about feeling dumb. I just got into a grad program and I already feel the beginnings of imposter syndrome.
Oof, yeah imposter syndrome is so real and a hard thing to shake. I still struggle with it several years out of grad school in the "real world." That said, I think when you're feeling imposter-y remind yourself of your skills, and your "why" - why are you doing this grad school? What's your goal? Taping into your passion, and your strengths can help push back on those imposter feelings. Best of luck in your program!
I came for the SG1 novel and tardis mug.. also because I finished my first year of graduate school and I'm contemplating my life choices. I am working full time and by pure luck managed a 3.5 GPA this year. I'm unsure of my ability to repeat this miracle.
Yes! A fellow Doctor Who and SG1 lover! :)
Graduate school is hard, there's no way around it. And adding working full time on top of it is A LOT, I imagine. Reflection on those choices is not a bad thing, and if it brings you to the conclusion that it's too much right now, I'm here to tell you THAT'S OKAY. Exploring some other options (can you work part time? can you pause the degree for a while?) doesn't make you a failure by any means. And whether they'll admit it or not, many other grad students around you are wrestling with the same questions. At the end of the day, I'm a big proponent of doing things for the right reasons and not making yourself sick in the process.
Good luck - these aren't easy life decisions to wrestle with, but they're worth it!
Hard to remember there are other routes than the traditional ones set in your field. I also want to do something different with my MA so thanks for reminding me of that. I have a great support system and I know I'm not alone. Just need to keep remembering that. Thanks! Much love!
Yeah, stepping off the pre-destined path is probably one of the hardest things to do. But there's a big wide world of all kinds of opportunities out there. Don't let others' fear of the unknown dictate your path. Good luck! You got this! :)
Thank you for reminding me about why I wanted to go to grad school: to be able to learn new information, and analyse it, and synthesis it, and to communicate about it knowledgeably.
I failed grad school three years ago, but I'm coming back next month!
Great tips! I was recently accepted to UCI to pursue a Master of Urban and Regional Planning degree, and I know this path is the most sensible and viable choice for me given my love for Environmental Planning and Sustainability. I'm sure a positive attitude and a dedicated focus go a long way in defining one's success at this level.
+Andy Dunlap Thanks for watching and commenting. Sounds like a cool program. Positive attitude certainly helps, but don't be afraid to get frustrated sometimes - that is an okay and perfectly normal part of graduate school, and sometimes those moments of frustration are when the biggest learning moments happen. Best of luck!
Thank you so much for this. I am in my first year, first sem and I already feel exhausted.
Hi, am starting a PHD in project management at fall in Canada.Thanks for your tips,a little bit scary at first but more motivated now
Thanks for watching and commenting! Grad school is hard, no doubt, but it's also incredibly rewarding. You got this!
I am in year 5 of grad school but I have just transferred to a new school with my research group. In some ways it feels like I am starting over. I don't know when I'm going to finish so the tunnel feels really long. Also, I feel dumb all the time! BUT I know that I'll get through and it will be worth it. Great video - thanks for your inspiration!
Thanks for watching and commenting!
Ugh, that sounds really hard. Navigating a new system can be really hard, especially when you were just mastering the old one. Just keep puttin' one foot in front of the other and focus on that tiny pinpoint of light at the end of the tunnel and you'll get there. Best of luck!
Thank you for sharing. This help me a lottt.
I am new at graduate student,right now.
I feel so dumb and feel bad about myself.
But now i feel relief.
❤️ 🙏
Thank you so much. I feel better.
I'm glad! Thanks for watching and commenting!
I'm still in CC thinking about grad school. Don't know if I'll make it that far but I'm keeping my ambitions high.
I'm a second year masters student in what is supposed to be a two and a half year program....without any class flexibility, electives, or ability to graduate on time without taking a full course load every semester. You could say I'm in that tunnel, and I'm claustrophobic. Watching your video however helps some to remind me there is a light somewhere, and once I get through this year I'm sure I'll see it again.
Thanks for watching and commenting - my apologies for not replying to this sooner. I'm sorry to hear you've been in the tunnel. It's such a hard place to be. I hope you've begun to see the light and make your way through. Best wishes!
I’m about to embark on a doctoral degree program in Psychology (yay!) and I’m trying to figure out what to expect and how to establish a routine. Your videos have been informative and morale boosting. Thank you for posting them!
I'm definitely in the breaking down stage of grad school.. it's comforting knowing that it has a purpose and will build me back up eventually.. hopefully... lol I do feel incompetent at times but this too shall pass!
+Queen D That's probably the worst time during graduate school, and there's not much to be said about it other than it's painful and frustrating. But like other challenges in life, it has its purpose in helping you grow and learn new things, though I know that's really hard to see it that way when you're in the midst of it. :-/
Hang in there!! You got this!
Thanks for your honest and inspiring videos!!!
I'll start my grad school this fall in a totally new and challenging environment.
I feel nervous even thinking about how I could cope with academic stress plus learning a new language since a few of my courses are not taught in English.
However, watching your videos really alleviate my anxiety and nervousness. Thanks a lot!
Oh good! I'm glad to hear you found this helpful! Grad school is tough, there's no way around that, but if you keep putting one foot in front of the other, you can get through it. :-)
Best of luck!
Hi Sara! I am starting Grad school for my masters in Social Work. I am about 2 weeks out from the start of the semester and sort of freaking out. The self doubt, question why I'm spending all this money and so many other negative feelings are spiraling through my head. Thanks for this video, although I am still Freaking out- I feel a little better and had a laugh, (I must get a funny mug.) Anyway on to more freaking out
3.5 years into it and I feel lost so this actually helped. I hope this understanding of myself as a normal phd student will actually last....
Thank you so much for this video! I am currently applying to Social Psychology PhD Programs and there are a very limited number of youtubers who discuss graduate school!
I'm glad you found this helpful! Best of luck in your applications and grad program!
Thank you for this Video. I'm currently in my Final year of M.S in Engineering and as the thesis deadline is approaching i'm getting nervous day by day.I too have the same feelings as mentioned in the video that i really fell i'm the most stupid person not just in my lab but in my entire department and everyone around me is really smart. So this constantly scares me and i feel like i may not be able to graduate.
So thank you once again for making this video. Hopefully everything goes well and i'm able to graduate !!
+raj j It's tough feeling like everyone around you is smarter than you are. But you are definitely not alone in that feeling. It's a rough time, but you'll get through. Best of luck with the thesis!
You are too chill for a person with a PhD :D :D
Haha! Thanks? ;-D
Thank you for this! I'm starting grad school this fall and feel very apprehensive.
Thanks for watching and commenting! Grad school is tough, and feeling apprehensive is normal. But just remember, everyone else is also apprehensive, even if they don't say so. Best of luck!
Awesome video :) I just started grad school and am already feeling dumb!
ThisIsWater Thanks! Yeah, that's normal and will pass...eventually. Stay strong and hang in there!
As a person who just got accepted to a PhD program and who has no effing idea what to expect...thank you!
You're welcome! Best wishes for your grad school adventure!
You’re awesome. Thank you!
Excellent. Thank you for such good advice!
You're welcome! And thanks for watching!
just started my second semester of grad school and am currently a full time student along with mandatory lab hours for my graduate research assistance position to work on my thesis, 20 hrs a week. This will be a long semester :' ))
great video. Hope to start grad school in January.
+Goody Hesson Awesome - Good luck! Thanks for watching!
Thank you for this. I was just feeling down because I have been having the same exact feelings this semester.
I am starting my MLIS in January. This is me trying as much as possible to be prepared. I haven't been in school for 20 years, so I am struggling to remember how to school. That part about internalizing your own incompetency is me already. I can't even believe I got in to this top-ranked program. How will I ever finish it? Thanks for your video.
I get the feeling of re-entering school being scary and overwhelming. But try to give yourself permission to stumble a bit as you get your school-legs back under you. You'll figure out what works for you and your life.
Dirty little secret? The ONLY program I got in to for graduate school was the top ranked one - none of the "back up schools" I applied to accepted me...so yeah, I definitely understand the feeling of "I so don't belong here." But that too shall pass, slowly, as you get the hang of things and learn that your fellow classmates, and all your professors, are people too. :)
Best of luck! You can do it!
I'm having anxiety about how behind from the proffessors I am, now on my graduation. It's not about the grades, to become an intellectual looks like a bad joke , "who do you think you are to..." . This was a awesome video for me, there is not only me freaking out over this kind of thing.
+Talyta Barcelos Yes - you are by no means alone in your feelings! It's quite common for people to feel a bit like imposters in their field, even after having spent years studying something so deeply. That feeling does eventually pass as you continue to learn and grow. Best wishes as you continue your journey!
Thank you. This was very helpful!
Glad you found it useful!
You saved my day! Thank you :)
Awww, thanks! That's nice to hear. Glad you found this helpful. :)
Hey, I just saw this video and your channel for the first time. First of all, I really love the video! Made me smile even when I'm worried about the future.
I'm currently starting my second semester of Junior year as an undergraduate. This is the time I have to start taking the GRE, thinking about grad school, all that stuff. I work in a research lab right now and I know that while I enjoy research and enjoy my job, I don't want to be in academia for the rest of my life. My bachelors will be in microbiology, and my graduate probably immunology if I go that path. What other sorts of things can I do with my life with a masters besides academia? Thanks!
Thanks for watching and commenting!
The great thing about most Master's degrees is they prepare you for jobs outside of academia. I'd say there are any number of directions you could go with a Master's degree. It's actually harder to break out of academia after you get a PhD because your training is so specialized. With a Master's there's much more flexibility and given your interests, I'd say medical industry would be a great place to look.
I'll also put in a plug for an upcoming Google Hangout I'm having with Dr. Erica Jordan who's going to be talking about all the things undergraduates like you should be thinking about now to prepare for graduate school...it'll be here on my channel Monday March 6th at 11am CT, so feel free to come join us if you can!
I’m about to start grad school in a month (public health). Thank you!
I have been feeling SO STUPID lately. I feel like I do such stupid things like formulated a hypothesis incorrectly, forgot to pick up samples which disappointed a committee member and have answered “I don’t know” a few times when asked why I selected a certain methods. So hopefully I can hear other stories of the stupid things done during grad school so I don’t feel the need the drop out 😅
what a good video, very motivational and realistic
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it.
Very nice video! Thank you ☺
thank you!
hi, thank you for great tips! i am finishing grad school but they still work for me :)
Thanks for watching and commenting! I'm glad you found this helpful. Best of luck as you finish up grad school!
God I really needed to hear number 3
I'm contemplating graduate school. I'm thinking of earning a masters of library science. what scares me the most is the difference in teaching compared to undergraduate. my senior year of college I was told by a grad student that in grad school, a professor will assign a paper and provide no instruction leaving it up to the student. If you could provide some insight into this I would apciate it.
+Jason Mims Thanks for watching! This is a tough one. Unfortunately, this varies a lot from professor to professor and program to program. In general, graduate programs tend to be more self-directed than your undergraduate studies. There's an expectation in graduate school that you have figured out how to be a successful student, and can apply those skills readily in the area you're most interested in. That said, there are a lot of places on most campuses that can provide additional assistance if you're concerned about your writing, and I'd even suggest reaching out to the professor to get more insight into what they're looking for and how you can be successful in the course.
I'll actually be uploading a video later this week that's an interview with some current graduate students on their insights into writing tips, as well as what they wish they'd known before going to graduate school that you might find useful - check back later this week!
Above all though, I'd encourage you to not let your wariness about the unknown prohibit you from considering graduate school. It can be difficult, but most people I talk to say it's worth it in the end. Good luck!! :)
This was really helpful and comforting, thank you. I'm in the last 6 months of my PhD. I really like the tunnel metaphor. I feel like I can see the light, but that the task of my thesis is just too big so the light also feels unreachable. But, it's got to be done!
I'm glad you found it helpful. The last 6 months is perhaps the hardest to push through, but you're SO CLOSE! 🙌
Best wishes for the last few months of your program!
Really great and useful video! Thanks for it! :-)
Omg, get 'er done. That's the best!
I just started an M.Ed. Program in Nutrition Education this month. Do you have any tips on applying to a Ph.D. Program after the Master's Degree? I want to put my best foot forward starting now.
Great question - the biggest thing is getting any research experience and written publications you can. If that's not possible, then getting a variety of experience (volunteering, work, internships, etc.) in your field of study can be really helpful. Basically PhD programs are looking for people who are passionate, and have a track record of doing well not only in classes, but in other things related to the PhD life (research, writing, collaboration, etc). Hope that helps!
You are awesome!!!!
Quick question! So you mentioned that you went directly from a senior in college to phd. How was that transition for you? Compared to, lets say, somebody who went to get their masters degree before phd? Did you feel as if you missed something or did you felt "smarter" in a way because you didn't have to go trough masters?
Thanks for your question! This is tough to answer...at the time I felt like there wasn't really another easily laid out option other than graduate school that made sense for me. However, being in a cohort of others who had spent years working, or had done master's degrees did sometimes make it feel like I was a little behind because I just didn't have the same degree of knowledge and experience that they did. I didn't really feel like I was having to "catch up," but others around me with more experience were definitely sharper, had more refined answers, and had more base knowledge of the content area than I did, especially early on. That said, grad school isn't really about how well you know the content. It's about hard work, problem solving, questioning, and learning A LOT in a very short amount of time.
If I had it to do over, I might think a little harder about taking some time in between to really explore and learn more about what I really wanted to do, but I can't say that that would have been the right decision either. It would have taken me in a different, but not necessarily better direction. Hope that helps!
how do you deal with not being perfect. ie not cleaning your apartment or not registering for insurance etc. I feel like I have no time for anything even though I procrastinate.
Inspiring.
Thank you for your video! BTW do u think that I should get a decent grade (above 3.5) to go to grad school? Since I want to have a lot of extracurricular experience, I was kind of concerned about my GPA and it bothers me to do something that enjoys me to feel college life. I want to hear your opinion. (my current gpa is 3.6 in Iowa state)
+Keonhwi Lee Thanks for watching and for your comment! In general, GPA becomes less important the further you get along in your career. But if you're still in college and looking at going to graduate school, I'd suggest keeping your GPA relatively high. With a 3.6 I'd say you're in good shape.
However, what's more important are those extracurricular experiences you talk about. So maybe you volunteer in a research lab, or work for the college newspaper, or are a leader in a campus organization, etc. Those kinds of experiences, especially ones that are related to the graduate degree you'll be seeking, are what make you stand apart from other applicants. For example, I can pretty safely say that I would not have gotten into the graduate school I did if I hadn't done a summer research program while I was an undergraduate. High GPA or not, those experiences are what set you apart. But you also shouldn't let your GPA slip too much while you're trying to do all these other things either. It's a (really tough) balancing act. Best of luck!!
+Developmental Enthusiast Thanks for ur reply! I wish I can balance both those things
+Developmental Enthusiast Thanks for ur reply! I wish I can balance both those things
Wow this video is amazing and soooo helpful
I'm so glad you found it useful! Thanks for watching.
Thank u thank u thank uuuu 💜💜💜💜
Great video..Thanks :-)
I have a doubt.....that I am getting a scholarship for studying in a masters program with 67%,whereas below 68% in masters program is considered fail :-0 ..I am really confused.Can anyone help.BTW i am talking about canadian universities.
Thanks for watching! As for your question, I'm not sure as I'm in the US not the Canadian system, but I'd reach out to someone at your school to inquire (maybe in the graduate school office? or your department?) Good luck!
I never went to college because I was afraid to ask anyone at the time because I was afraid to ask because I was afraid that they were going to say you're not smart enough because of the education that I got in school because I got put in a special ed class do to my disability and my stepdad the one who repeatedly physically and emotionally abused me for years also ones told me that I didn't have any brains for it but he is a mean person and a terrible human being who failed in college himself his specialty was physical stuff like heavy lifting and auto machines I know that I could have probably been successful in college if I really had a passion for it despite my disability
damn so many PhD students here o_o I feel little and pathetic with my stupid BA degree that won't even get me any decent job...
Great content and subscribed! Would love hear what you think of our grad school channel. Thank you.
Whovian!!!
So you're talking about PhD programs? I thought that is "post grad." I thought grad school = master's degree .
So you can go to graduate school for a Master's or PhD degree (or other professional degrees like JD, MD etc.) Anything after a bachelor's degree is generally referred to as graduate school and we refer to "post-graduate education" as anything after completing the undergraduate degree. The difference between Masters and PhD usually lies in the amount of time, focus, and requirements for completion. We like to make it nice and confusing in academia...
LMFAO, you're funny.