Grad School Survival 101

In October 2016, I received my acceptance into graduate school at Lamar University. At that time...in my mind...I might of done a back flip but in reality I think I just smiled and smiled some more.

Lamar University offers online, in-class, and hybrid programs. I decided to pursue a completely online degree in Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration.

How did I survive graduate school while working full-time?

I created a game plan because success was my only option (Eminem).

You better lose yourself in the music, the moment
You own it, you better never let it go
You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow
This opportunity comes once in a lifetime
                       - Eminem

Grad School 101

1. Create a YOU day because the only way to be successful was to allow for me to take a break from school. For me, this day was Tuesdays. I would go to Taekwondo and escape from school for 3 hours.
   
2. Organization is key a planner is such a beautiful thing! If you never want to miss assignments then I suggest that you invest in one. My bestfriend once made a joke about "grad school brain" which means you are super forgetful. Let me tell you that this is not a joke but is real. I would forget prior engagements that I had committed to so I just wrote everything down.
3. Plan on moments because they will forever be important to you.
4. Support systems help to create the foundation for your success. Knowing that your friends and family have you back whether that means reading a paper or discussion post, studying at Starbucks for hours with you, or  taking a break while on vacation so that you can do school work.
   
5. Schedule times for school work this will allow for you to keep a schedule. Make sure to put the phone away at this time because distractions suck.
   
6. Don't let a bad grade ruin your hard work. I received all A's except for in Economics (B), Finance (B), and Accounting (C). Clearly, these aren't my strongest subjects. These three classes challenged me in ways that I had not experienced before. Economics was calculus on steroids and life was hard during these 3 classes. 
   

Grad School 101: Work School Balance

If you choose to go the route of working and pursing your graduate degree, then here are a few things that helped me stay focused

1. Every moment is precious bring books, laptops, and relevant information. During lunch, I would work on discussion posts or read for assignments and take notes. 
2. Time is important so when at work dedicate yourself to completing any projects or assignments that your job has assigned to you.
3. Attitude can set the mood so stay positive when your at work and don't let any frustrations from school leak into your productivity.

Plug: Celsius energy drinks are amazing and helped me survive through grad school and work. #CELSIUSLiveFit

In following all of these guidelines, I was not only able to get a 3.67 GPA but I received a promotion at my job.

I hope that you all enjoyed and that you remember to live your life the best way that you can and not for others.