Section 1.1: Understanding the Commitment

One major realization is that obtaining a degree is not your typical 9-to-5 job. When I began my program, I was still in touch with friends who had graduated with degrees in business or education, seamlessly landing jobs post-graduation. We often fantasized about the ease of a regular work schedule, but my reality consisted of night classes from 6 PM to 9 PM, following two earlier classes, and conducting research afterward. It wasn't uncommon for me to have 15-hour days, with lunch breaks spent poring over journal articles or computational tasks. At one point, I even found myself sleeping on the office couch to monitor experiments running overnight.

This sentiment is echoed by many of my peers in both Master's and PhD programs. The road can be tough, but perseverance is essential!

Section 1.2: Financial Realities

Another stark truth is the low pay. During my undergraduate years, I worked as a laboratory teaching assistant and as a bench chemist, earning around $5,000 during my senior year, which felt substantial at the time. However, I was shocked to discover that my graduate stipend was roughly $22,000. After accounting for living expenses, rent, and commuting costs, the reality hit hard. On weeks where I spent 60-80 hours in the lab, my effective hourly wage plummeted to between $6 and $8. As a graduate student, you often find yourself as a cost-effective resource for your advisor, leading to more loans than I had ever anticipated.

Section 1.3: The Importance of Hobbies

Having fulfilling hobbies is crucial to avoid feeling miserable during grad school. While this is a broader life lesson, it holds particularly true for graduate studies. Initially, I found myself trapped in a monotonous routine, working long hours and isolating myself from social interactions, which took a toll on my mental health. Realizing the need for change, I revisited old hobbies and explored new ones. I indulged in reading for pleasure, ventured into photography, experimented with cooking, and even trained for a half marathon. No matter how little time you have, pursuing what you love can be a lifeline!

Section 1.4: Accepting Vulnerability

It's perfectly fine to not be okay. This might sound cliché, but it's an important truth. As I progressed in my program, I faced escalating anxiety and depression. Acknowledging my struggles and discussing them with my advisor allowed us to create a supportive accommodation plan. Seeking help from a psychiatrist and connecting with the Services for Students with Disabilities was crucial in managing my mental health.

In my experience, reaching out for assistance was vital to nearing the completion of my degree. Thankfully, my advisor and others in my department have been incredibly supportive throughout this journey.