Peer Advisor Blog Posts

When I started graduate school here at MBKU, I expected long study hours, never-ending exams, and zero time outside of school. It was easy to feel like my entire identity was “graduate student” and nothing else. What I fully didn't anticipate is how important it is to take care of yourself outside of school. In order to not lose myself in this program, I realized I needed to protect the things that make me feel like me.

Grad school can feel very overwhelming, especially with the amount of new material you need to learn each week. But! Once you find your groove, grad school can become a little more manageable! Below are some study methods that helped me!

Organize Everything 

Before starting graduate school, I didn’t know what to expect, and I truly thought my biggest challenge would be the courses. While that was an important factor, I quickly learned that graduate school is much more than its rigorous material. Looking back on my first year, I’d like to share 10 things I wish I'd known before I had started.

1. Everyone is Nervous, Even If They Don't Seem Like they Are

Nothing really prepares you for the transition into graduate school — whether you’re coming straight from undergrad or returning after a few years. What made it especially real for me was leaving the Bay Area, the only place I have ever called home. 

Entering grad school can seem very daunting at first. You might feel uncertain if you will have the time to do anything outside of studying. However, rest assured that most first-year students end up having plenty of time to engage in their own hobbies as well as become active in various clubs on campus. Joining clubs can be a great way to learn more about a specific interest, volunteer, make new friends, and apply your knowledge and skills outside of MBKU. 

Everybody studies differently, I personally am one of those people who cannot sit still at home. As a result, I’ve spent almost all of my hours studying outside! Here are a few of my recommendations on places to study if you are like me and want a change of scenery. 

Campus Study Spots 

Where do you even begin when it comes to preparing to start PA school? It can feel very overwhelming since most incoming students are moving closer to campus, quitting their jobs, and basically rearranging much of their life to begin a hard but rewarding program. I thought that when I started all of my time would be devoted to lectures and studying whenever I was not in class. Although PA school does take up much of your time as a student, there is still time to take care of you and do things outside of studying! 

Hikes and Outdoor Spots Nearby