I struggled to write this. Not because of the state of the states, but because it’s unclear where I will be in my life when I post this. Warning: this is a reflective blog. Onward!
SONG INSPIRATION
This month’s blog is inspired by Monica’s “Everytime Tha Beat Drop”.
2021
We can cancel the free trial. No need to renew the subscription. Here’s to 2022! Let’s not kid ourselves – a new year doesn’t automatically erase the issues of the previous year. And it’s not the year that’s the problem, it’s the systemic failures that have persisted for decades or centuries. But we won’t go there just yet. Bottom line, it’s easy to call out 2021. We’re experiencing infamous history – and it ain’t fun. But we’re only 2 weeks in. I’m trying to reserve some cautious optimism with the rollout of a vaccine, etc. But let’s take a step back from the world….
SEPARATING FROM ACADEMIA
I’m currently processing multiple transitions in my life right now. Turning in my office keys and strolling campus was an emotional experience full of nostalgia and reflection. I’ve spent my entire adult life in science and now I’m putting it behind me.
Graduate school
I spent 7 years in graduate school. I made innumerable memories, fantastic friends, suffered romantic heartbreak(s), and overcame some of my largest obstacles. I’m stronger, happier, smarter, and sexier (hehe, just wanted to see if you were paying attention) than when I started in 2013. I’ve learned so much about volcanoes, planetary science, and most importantly but least surprisingly, myself. I finished my marathon. But the post-marathon debriefing continues as I try to determine what I want to do with my career and the rest of my life.
Post-doctoral work
I’ve spent half a year as a post-doc, a small commitment relative to grad school. However, it was at the same institution so in some ways it felt like a continuation. In other ways it was quite different. I’m on the other side of quals, theses, coursework, and dissertation committees. There’s a new set of pressures, of course, mainly publishing, mentoring, and administration. Through my few months as a post-doc, I’ve come to recognize my passion for JEDI initiatives and that if I choose to remain in academia, doing this work would be an essential element. Lastly, the submission of one manuscript and the preparation of two more means that I’ll be loosely tied to the academy for at least the next several months.
Leaving the country / academia
Publications aside, I’m preparing to take a break from academia. Currently, I intend on returning but that’s beyond my 2-year visualization limit. After spending so much time immersed in the discipline of planetary science and volcanology – hopping from deadline to deadline – the sudden swing to teaching English in an easy-going seaside city in Japan is a cultural shock. I’m excited for the perspectives of new experiences – how will that shape my future career path? Yet another transition, another milestone to ponder. Historically, I haven’t handled flux so well but I’m confident now in my cognitive behavioral practices to navigate this sea of change.
CURRENT SHOWS
Recently finished: 911 (s3); Blood of Zeus; explained: mind; Schitt’s Creek (s1 – 3)
Currently watching: Futurama (s7); Schitt’s Creek (s4); Say I Love You
Thank you for reading! I appreciate your time and energy. My next blog is scheduled for Thursday, February 11th. Until next time….
The Planetary Novelist 