Guest blogger: How I survived my first year as a grad student

Niki DeWeese — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 11:55:28 +0000

Amber and I first met at a graduate school fair in the mountains of North Carolina, and I couldn’t be happier that she chose to attend The Graduate School of the College of Charleston. Not only did she choose College of Charleston, but she also chose to work with our office as a graduate assistant. “Miss Amber” as we call her around the office, is full of energy and always has a smile ready for anyone that walks through the door. Below is her account of her first year as a grad student.

One Year Down!

Upon entering the history graduate program at the College of Charleston, two more years of school seemed like a lifetime! But here I am, the first year flew by, and I’m no worse for the wear.

I improved scholastically and met some incredible people!

The GSO Grad Assistants, Bree, Amber, Bonnie, Gwen and Tiffany

I moved from a small mountain hamlet to Charleston, South Carolina. Before the school year began, I was hired as a graduate assistant. Through this quirky office setting, I found a surrogate family. The ladies keep me laughing and the impressive career of a gentleman in the office, reminds me what I have the potential to accomplish. The position keeps me in contact with prospective students, current students, and faculty from our 28 different programs. I am exposed daily to the exciting projects and research happening throughout the College. The most important thing I learned in this office is that the faculty is dedicated to student success.

Joi, Chris, Amber, Gwen and Eric

Initially afraid that dedicated, academic pursuit might limit opportunities to make friends, I soon experienced quite the opposite. The first-years in my program bonded during class discussions, over research, and even an occasional beer. We ran the gauntlet of a staggering workload and survived! (”Survive” may seem like a strong word for me to use, but there were definitely times we wondered whether or not we’d make it) Once we realized that we could survive, my fellow first-years and I relaxed. We became friends. We continue to hone our academic skills. On a professional level, we learned one another’s research interests and career goals. My colleagues and I share ideas, pass along readings, and support each other. And when our brains need a rest, we get to play in Charleston!

Joi, Kristin, and Amber

I am so fortunate to have these friends and colleagues in my life. When I left my small home town for the first time, I was convinced that making friends in graduate school would be impossible. But I found them and am better for it.

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Guest blogger: How I survived my first year as a grad student