writergal Posted May 14, 2012 Share Posted May 14, 2012 Although I'm really excited to try and reconnect with a bunch of different social groups related to my hobbies/interests prior to grad school I'm feeling nervous about how to reconnect. Like when I attended my 20 year high school reunion last year I was dreading it but also knew I wanted to go because I'd missed the previous 5 and 10 year reunions. My fears were realized however at the high school reunion because all the women in my class were there with their husbands, pulling out photographs and telling stories of their children's lives and their careers, etc. when all I could brag about was that I was in grad school (a decision I regret making). I've read articles about grad student burnout happening. The most common misconception is that those who start then quit their grad program spend the rest of their life feeling resentful, embittered and have a sense of personal failure. I already regret transferring to a second university to repeat coursework for a masters that I don't want. So I'm over my personal failure about it. I think if I invested yet another year studying and prepping for that one last state exam (not to mention waiting 4 months for my program to approve a masters and license, then another 5-12 months finding a job) I will feel resentful and embittered. How do I re-connect with my creative communities without bringing the baggage of my grad school experience with me that has nothing to do with these creative communities (outlets, rather)? People can be really judgmental and I know myself well enough to know that I have a tendency to disclose too much too soon when I'm nervous or trying hard to impress - which can be overwhelming for others. I'm just wondering if anyone has any insights about this sort of situation? Link to post Share on other sites
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