Coming into Spring Semester

Well my presentation went great and I actually felt more prepared than I thought I would. I am mad though that I wasn't able to pay the remainer of my tuition though and they charged me an extra 100.00. I guess everyone is looking for money these days. I was late justifiably. I realize it isn't personal-it is policy. It just seems excessive. They also charge you an extra 2% if you use a credit card. I need to register for Spring and am trying like crazy to avoid loans. I have entered a few writing contests and done a few scholarship apps, but I'm feeling stressed nonetheless. We also got an assignment for our next class over this holiday break. I kind of hate that. I was looking forward to calm time with the kids and actually sleeping. Not sure that is going to happen. Oh well I really want this doctorate so that is life as a grad student I suppose.

Reflection as of 12/04/08

Tonight we practiced the presentations of our action research projects. Overall I think my presentation was good, but as usual I become over animated and way too informal. Where some may feel this is appealing, I think some people in academia may perceive my approach as flighty or unprofessional. So, I guess in my own mind, I need to come with a more written structure, stick to my notes better, and only add occasional bouts of flair (ha ha).