Peer Advisor Blog Posts

When I moved from Arizona to attend MBKU, I felt like I had everything figured out, except I did not have a car. But, reflecting back on the school year, I think everything worked out!

Here's How: 

One of the biggest reasons I felt comfortable moving without a car was that I found a place within walking distance of campus. Being able to walk to class every day made life much easier and saved me from dealing with parking or transportation costs. And, as a bonus, I got a little walking workout every day!

Free time?! In a graduate program?

No, it’s not a typo. It really is possible to have free time while you pursue your studies of Optometry, Pharmacy, or Physician Assistant. While I’ve only completed my first year of Optometry school, I know many upperclassmen in my program that follow the same principles that I will be sharing. It works. Not only will you survive, you can also thrive.

Grad school can be a hectic transition, especially for those moving or returning after several years. As someone who was still unpacking during the first week of classes, I understand the stress of balancing my academic and personal life. Staying organized can make that transition much smoother, but there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. I often use different organizational tools depending on the class or task at hand. Here are my top three recommendations that I hope will help make your transition into grad school a little easier

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.