One son is beginning graduate school this week. I want to support this chapter for him as I can. This change made me think of my own graduate school experience.
I was working in the marketing department of a design firm for three years when I realized that I needed more education to embark on a profession I could truly invest in. I read the book, What Color is Your Parachute, completed all the exercises and decided to become an educator. I researched the graduate schools nearby. I didn't even think of moving away likely because I was newly in love.
I received a terrific scholarship from one school I applied to, so chose to attend that university. My sister and I got an apartment near the school, and I began my graduate program in education. I had lots and lots of energy at that time since I was going to school, completing internships, working for a catering company, working at a childcare center, typing for a business man who worked from his apartment and having lots of good times with my friends and family.
I loved meeting the other graduate students and the professors. The creative learning tasks were wonderful as was living and learning in the great city of Boston. I took a number of courses at nearby state universities as well to cut the cost of the private college I was attending.
I leaned on my parents a bit when money was tight and continued to visit home for holidays and special events. My sister and I rarely saw each other since we both had very busy schedules, boyfriends and lots of good times. Once we had a terrific holiday party with a great big Christmas tree in the apartment which was located on a crowded street with outdated apartments and lots and lots of college students.
On another occasion, I left class at the end of the day, traveled to Quebec to enjoy Winter Carnival for the weekend. That's the energy of twenty-something's who can burn the candle at both ends each and every day.
My one regret from graduate school is that I didn't take advantage of the honor societies and special graduate school events since I was too busy working and socializing. That would have been positive and I've encouraged my son not to make that mistake.
The graduate school was a terrific experience that led to a wonderful career as an educator. I learned a lot, met great people and gained confidence. I wish the same for my son. Onward.