The title of this blog post has changed several times, but I think I’ve finally landed with a keeper in this evocation of a phrase used regularly in one of my seminars. I’d like to do a “materialist intervention” of my graduate school experience thus far.
But first let me set the stage a little bit. I distinctly recall loathing my situation when I first arrived to grad school. I hated the place and I felt like it wasn’t “right” for me. I had all sorts of romanticized assumptions of graduate work and I thought that I had pretty much been dropped in a wasteland. Considering my forthcoming “materialist intervention” of my surroundings one would suppose that I’m either walking around with a bag over my head, or that I’ve grown up (a little). Here’s what rocks:
*I have a sweet office space. It’s quiet, I’m surrounded by books, and I have a window. Perfection itself.
*I (sometimes) teach students who are really committed to learning and growth.
*I’m not starving. That’s pretty material.
OK, I’m clearly out of the habit of writing blog posts. But, to end, how about you do a “materialist intervention” into your grad school career. I’m sure we all got some great and not so great (and freaking awesome, if your name is Dallin) things to share.
Hope all is well.
* Healthy kids. Who only woke up once last night! I’ll take it.
* My own library carrel, though w/o the window. Still, a 4×6 plot I can call my own.
* “Cost of living” should not be underrated when considering grad schools and their stipends. South Bend, due to its economic struggles, is an fairly easy place to live.
I’m so spoiled:
-Fellowship = no teaching (I only go to campus 2x/ week–which is good, because it’s a 45-minute commute)
-Three very manageable courses (one is a directed readings)
-Involved and interested faculty
-Strong medieval program
-Congenial colleagues
-Amazing husband
-And to top it off, I get to live in a 5,000 sq. ft. house without paying rent
Next year things will be different, but for now I’m just counting my blessings.