graduation and beyond

That’s right. I am actually going to graduate with my Master’s degree on May 8th at 4pm. There were many days in the past year and a half when I wasn’t sure I could see the light at the end of the tunnel. Let’s just say it has been a long road, in more ways than one. I think I could make an argument that I have a minor in research proposals. Seriously. So that is the good news — defend thesis on March 13th, graduate on May 8th. Wahoo! I’m going to do a little dance . . . or like Melissa on The Bachelor (I know, I know) – I’m going to turn around, scream, and jump up and down.

The unfortunate thing about graduating is figuring out what is next. I know that God will open and close doors as He sees fit and that ultimately, as long as God is front and center of my life, I will not be out of His will. So what is next for me? I’m not sure. As anyone who hasn’t been living in cave knows, the economy isn’t so great right now. Therefore, employers aren’t exactly knocking down my door — or even looking at the resume I keep sending. There are a few leads but seriously, rough job market out there. So that leaves more education — which leaves me a little confused. God has certainly opened up some doors in that arena. Just when I thought I had made some decisions, God laughed (in a good way), and opened some doors I thought were closed. This, right after I felt another door closing. I’m not exactly opposed to a PhD, not at all. I just want to have a clear picture of what I want to do with the PhD. That way, I don’t put a ton of time and energy into a PhD that may or may not lead me to where I want to go. These are my random thoughts about the future.

In the meantime — graduation, here I come!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I should also say — thank you to all of you who helped me persevere though the last year and a half. I didn’t get this degree on my own, there are quite a few of you out there who deserve a portion of this. For that, I thank you!