I wish I could say the reason I have dissapeared for the last few weeks is because I was out on an amazing adventure in the Australian outback. Sadly this is not the case, I have been on an daily epic trip to the library instead ;) I feel like the first few weeks of classes and readings are all a blur now, an interesting blur, but a blur none the less. After five years away from university, it definitely takes a few weeks to get back in the groove of student life. Lessons from Week 1- 4 $117 per teachable hour Out of curiosity I decided to calculate the average cost of my semester based on an hourly rate. I'm not sure if this was to motivate me more, or to make me cry. Regardless, on average it costs $117/per teachable hour for my course. This doesn't include living costs, or opportunity costs (of giving up my job) - I think this ended up being around $300-$400/hour... Needless to say, it motivates me tremendously to do well and put effort into this degree - why pay for it if you don't ever go to class or engage in the subject, right? Go talk to your course director and/or course advisor Although I entered my program with a pretty clear understanding of my intended stream (my program has five of them), there were still components of course selection that I needed clarification on. Your course director/advisor is a resource that should be utilized!!! When you are investing your time and money in a degree, ensuring you have covered every subject and area you need to is important. Plus - chances are your advisor will be able to chat with you about a variety of queries you may have, and may even be able to connect you with resources/people who can help you reach your full degree potential. I have been to talk with my director/advisor several times to discuss internship opportunities, changing my course structure, and to inquire into the ability to take a trip back to Canada during my second semester. Start reading early The course requires a lot of self-motivated study, with only 9 hours of direct class time, there is an expectation of 30-40 hours of outside reading and work required. Although the work load may seem light at the beginning, I would definitely suggest getting a head start because once week 3 hits , panic ensues. I had three essays due in seven days, as well as readings and two mini-assignments. If you get behind, it really kills you when things get busy. The good news is, the Week 3 storm has passed, the bad news Week 5 and 6 will be just as crazy. Brb, headed to the library... Another day, another library session...
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AuthorHi everyone! I'm Kathryn, a Master's student at Monash University in Melbourne. This blog outlines the experiences and transition of my life in small town Terrace, BC to the sites and sounds of Melbourne, Australia! Archives
July 2017
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