First Semester...

Even though it’s only the first semester of the program, I have already begun to consider what to do for my capstone project. The capstone project is what I have been looking forward to most. It’s the chance to do whatever you want that is related to your program, like developing your own research proposal. There are so many possibilities, but time is a limiting factor as you are supposed to complete it within the two years of the program. Stockton does offer the opportunity to apply for a research grant (http://intraweb.stockton.edu/eyos/page.cfm?siteID=73&pageID=156) to cover expenses of your project.
Despite being at Stockton College for four years there are a lot of firsts all over again. I don’t know anyone, most people I knew graduated and have left the school, which, at times, is a great thing; I can get in and out of school easily without have to talk to every third person. It is very different only having your classes meet once a week rather than three times a week, but I like the change. I have more freedom in my schedule and enjoy the concept of just getting it all done in one class rather than dragging it out over the course of three days a week. The schedule of the classes offered next semester will be posted soon… and as always, I am looking forward to seeing what I can take next!

VM - 9.24.2009 - PSM

Beginning PSM...

Just when I thought I was done, I am starting all over again. After selling back my last books, moving off campus and taking what I thought would be my last final, I began again. The past four years at Stockton have been good to me so I decided why not come back for more?! This fall, I began graduate school instead of beginning life in the ‘real world’. The Professional Science Masters is the newest program at Stockton College and focuses on Environmental Science. I figured I would give it a whirl and see what it was all about. I registered for Environmental Quality, Watershed Management and Plant Ecology for my first semester. I figured I would have to take out a lot student loans to pay for this but classes are at night and on the weekends so I can work, and I was also fortunate enough to receive a Graduate Assistantship. Environmental Quality was my first class Wednesday night with Professor Tait Chirenje, the Director of the program. I felt a little overwhelmed at first, but as soon as I got back into the groove I knew there was a lot that could be learned. The articles we read addressed everyday environmental issues that are right under everyone’s noses but we’re completely oblivious to: power lines, Super funds, cell phones, microwaves….things everyone should avoid. Plant Ecology’s on a Saturday and even though I figured I would hate the whole Saturday class thing, I like the class so much that I don’t even mind coming to school on Saturday. The professor, Kathy Sedia, is one that I had before so I had some idea of what to expect, I found there is a whole other side to plants I never knew about with their secret defense mechanisms and toxic fumes humans can’t even smell. Watershed management with Professor Claude Epstein is a whole different experience; he has been around the school since the early 70’s and knows so much about campus. It’s going to be interesting to learn how to balance work, school, a graduate assistantship, homework and if I have time to breathe in between, some time to myself.

VM - 9.16.2009 - PSM

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