A New Chapter

This past Monday, August 12, 2013, I began a new chapter in my life. Monday marked the first day of my doctoral studies for my Ed.D degree in Educational Leadership. My classes that I am taking this semester are online/hybrid courses. Today, we met for the first time for our RSCH 9800 course. 

As I drove the hour and thirty minutes from my house to Valdosta, it was flooding. Usually, I will catch up on phone calls anytime I drive, but this morning was different. Because of the heavy rain, I knew my focus needed to be on driving so I left the phone alone. This quiet time allowed me to reflect upon my previous graduate work, and it gave me an opportunity to think about how different my life is going to be for the next several years. 

1. A change in sleep patterns: I love my sleep. God blessed my husband and I with a precious daughter who slept through the night very early on. Yes, God understands how vital it is that I get enough sleep. I graduated with my Ed.S degree in 2007, and since that time, my sleeping has been wonderful. I am a little nervous as to how my body is going to respond to late night readings, writings, and research. I know eventually I will get it together.

2. Family time: I love spending time with my family. Our daughter is just getting the age where she is becoming involved in many activities, such as dance lessons, private tennis lessons, tennis matches, soccer, etc. I want to be there and be involved. This is another reason why my sleep is going to take a hit because I will do most of my work after we put her to bed at night. 

3. Time management: I can no longer wait until the last minute to complete something. I have to begin as soon as I can in order to allow myself adequate time for quality work. Period. 

Obtaining my doctorate degree is a personal goal that I have always had for myself. I was beyond excited to receive a personal phone call informing me of my acceptance and then to receive my acceptance letter in the mail. While I know it is going to be a lot of late nights and seemingly endless readings, I am elated to embark on this new journey.