The start of classes is quickly closing in: next Monday we kick things off with the program's orientation meeting. Four years after finishing at Goshen, it'll be interesting to see what it's like back in the academic rhythm. Maybe I'll even get some proper study habits, in contrast with my previous schooling. It should be a good atmosphere, though - the other students that I've met so far seem like a really bright, motivated, energetic group of people. Studying appropriately will be much easier when everyone else is heading in the same direction and running into the same walls. The previous couple years of students have clearly formed a very cohesive group, and it's exciting to see how that energy can build off itself and keep everyone going.
After a couple years as a research tech, I never saw the classes side of the experience, only the lab side. I heard a little about classes, but they were simply one of those things that happened to other people. The Miller lab was great to work in because people interacted so well on both social and professional levels. I really enjoyed seeing the dynamics that come out of those situations - where people are comfortable enough to relax around each other, but still focused on the problems at hand that the lab is tackling. That's one of my favorite aspects of the academic/research world in general.
Not to overblow the situation, but it's almost on the level of "restoring one's faith in humanity" to see a group of people who respect each others' abilities consult with each other and work together to figure out not who is right so much as what is right. That step from competitive to collaborative is one of the biggest ways I can think of to ensure a positive work culture. Going beyond concepts of "synergy," teamwork, divide-and-conquer, and all of those ("synergy" gets quotes because I refuse to give it status as a legitimate word. I maintain that it's the bastard child of business school and buzzwords), the collaborative atmosphere shows respect for and legitimizes all contributions and ideas (and contributors!) rather than only rewarding the most successful. So to make a long story short, that's why I appreciate the work atmosphere I've experienced in academia.
In other news, I'm still functionally homeless. Well, functionally sheltered but technically homeless (sleeping on someone's floor... thanks, Gerick!). I've seen about 7 apartments so far and have just as many more visits planned within the next few days, so eventually one of these people will give me a piece of paper to sign and I'll be on my way!
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