This summer brought significant changes, both in my professional life and in my personal connection with nature. After being promoted to paralegal and head of the Worker’s Compensation department at the law firm, I found myself facing a new set of challenges, from more demanding deadlines to a steeper learning curve. While it was thrilling to take on these new responsibilities for being recognized for my hard work, it also required navigating the unknown. To balance the intensity of this transition, I made it a point to spend more time outdoors, hiking along scenic trails and enjoying the serenity of the beach. These moments in nature provided the clarity and reset I needed to manage the pressures of my new role.

Navigating these changes required more than just technical skills; it called for a shift in mindset. I had to learn to delegate effectively, manage my time with precision, and maintain my well-being amid increased pressure. Balancing work and personal life took on a new dimension, and it was in this demanding environment that I began to second-guess my decision to return to school this semester.

I’m faced with the question many of us face: How do I juggle a full-time job, part-time school, family commitments, and a social life? It’s a daunting task, and the thought of managing all these responsibilities simultaneously has been overwhelming at times.

In the midst of this, I’ve found myself questioning whether I can truly handle everything on my plate. The doubt is real, and the fear of burnout is tangible. Yet, there’s also a part of me that’s deeply grateful for this season of growth. The challenges I’ve faced have been profound learning experiences, and they’ve equipped me with new skills and insights that I can bring into my studies and beyond.

Even though I’m feeling drained, I’m also incredibly grateful. This period of intense growth has taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability. It’s made me more aware of my own strengths and limitations and has shown me that I can handle more than I initially thought.

Returning to grad school after such a transformative summer feels like stepping into a new phase of my educational journey. The skills I’ve honed at work—like strategic thinking, effective communication, and time management—are all assets that will enhance my academic performance. And while the balancing act will be challenging, it’s also an opportunity to apply what I’ve learned in a practical setting. 

I don’t have a definitive thesis topic in mind just yet, but I’m optimistic that I’ll develop one in the coming weeks. As I delve deeper into the coursework and engage with available resources and discussions, I expect a clearer direction to take shape. Exploring different ideas and conducting early research should help pinpoint a specific area of interest. I’m excited about the possibilities and committed to finding a topic that aligns with both my academic and professional background, while also making a meaningful contribution to the field. I’m eager to discover a topic that resonates with me and to work toward a thesis that reflects my growth and aspirations.