Friday, June 11, 2010

Dr. Athena or Why I Want A Fancy-Ass Degree

Eleven years ago this December I earned my Masters in Public Affairs, public administration major.  I was 26, single, had my own house, dating on occasion and had a job I loved, dearly. 

Since that time I've kicked the tires, over and over, of going back to school for that elusive Piled Higher and Deeper degree.  Two years ago I had myself convinced to go to Indiana U for said degree, got my things together and reconsidered the whole notion of going back to school.  Of course, I was in hell (also known as Ivy Tech), and my boss was, say, less-than-stellar so those plans were shelved a bit.  Then Dad ended up with some health issues and all the sudden I was looking at relocation.  I mean, how else to solve work issues and family issues than completely uprooting your whole existence.  Right? 

Sure.

I've applied to Florida International University in Miami for this fall for my Ph.D. in public administration.  It isn't the end-all be-all of schools but it is the closest and my previous professors from IU said it would be acceptable. 

Now I'm thinking of just biting the bullet and going back to school full-time.  Suck it up, eat ramen & spaghetti-os, and become a full-time nerd.   I'll be 37 this fall.  I'd be done by the time I'm in my early 40s.

Yeah, I've gotten quite used to the money I make.  That's going to be a rough transition.  Plus add in the fact that I haven't been inside of the classroom in 11 years and, well, the gray matter has been significantly decreased by consumption of all things adult beverage-related. :)

I'm signing up for a couple of classes this fall at the local university in town -- getting my feet wet, getting some grades out there that are recent.  Will apply to some colleges in January with hopes of notice of admission by March.

This time, next year ... who knows where I'll be. 

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