Anonymous Turmoiler: Tumultuous Path of Grad School

My journey through grad school has been the most difficult, stressful, overwhelming, wonderful, exciting, worthwhile adventure I’ve taken so far in life. 

Every step comes with mixed emotions. I fear the unknown but anticipate new experiences, and I stress over assignments but welcome the feeling of pride and accomplishment upon completion. I have never been more confident that I am on the right path and that I have found my purpose, and despite the struggles of grad life (believe me, the struggle is too real), I always remember that this program will give me the opportunity to be a school counselor—my dream career. I will be able to work with students and help them through their young lives, which gives me purpose and fulfillment. 

The path to this dream is not easy, and I often become overwhelmed. Sometimes, I wish I could do nothing but relax, clear out my crazy schedule.

I am working part time through my program, to have money to pay for it. It’s actually kind of ironic, because I want to dedicate all of my time to grad school, but in order to be able to take classes and get through the program, I have to work to pay for it. Honestly, if I don’t laugh about it I’ll cry some days, so I choose to take life as it comes and accept the journey. I am blessed to have the best support system, comprised of my amazing family, friends, co-workers, and classmates. These wonderful people are always there to listen, lend advice, show support, encourage me, and boost my confidence when it is low. I have learned through life, especially after going away to college, that it does not matter where you are, but whom you are with.It’s the people you surround yourself with that define who you are and help you achieve your dreams. 

This grad school experience has taught me that showing emotions and asking for help is not weakness, but the greatest strength. 

I am grateful everyday to be in my grad program, have the opportunity to achieve my dreams, and to go through it with the best people by my side. For anyone who is currently in a grad program, has graduated from one, or is thinking about applying, I admire all of you for your courage and strength. Grad school is not easy, its pretty darn difficult, and it takes an inner drive to overcome those inevitable barriers and come out on the other side. Through all the stress of papers, presentations, and exams, I am learning so much about myself, the counseling field, and what it takes to succeed in this career. I am growing as a person, becoming more self-aware, and bettering myself each day. This is the true gift I am receiving from grad school—the ability to learn and grow as an individual and become the best version of myself. 

I will leave you all with one last bit of advice… practicing self-care is the most important thing you can do during a stressful time.

If you are not operating at full capacity, how can you put your best effort into work, school, relationships, or whatever else life brings? It is not selfish to put yourself first sometimes, and do what you need to feel good and be okay. Whatever it is that brings you peace and happiness through the noise of life, do it without shame. It took me a while to realize this, but it is beyond true and I am happy with who and where I am. Let your light shine!