For most of my life the year that has ruled my schedule is not of the calendar variety, but rather the academic one. For as long as I can remember, barring a few years when I was a stay-at-home mom, the academic year has either seen me return to school or to work as a mathematics tutor. I’ve written before about September bringing new beginnings, but this year the impact somehow seems more substantial.
I’m beginning the third year of my degree. For some on my course this will be their final year. They will earn their BEng and leave. I plan on staying around to complete my MEng in Chemical and Energy Engineering. This year it all feels so real, so final. The things we are learning are actually the things we need to know to have successful careers in our field. This year also contributes 40% to my final degree classification – quite different from the US system that I’m used to.
A new diary with lecture times & locations, school holidays, and other important dates scribbled inside in ink. My year is about to take shape and take off at a pace which I hope I can keep up with. Thankfully after a week and half of hassle Student Finance England has gotten their act together and deposited money in my account. For some odd reason I find it less stressful to send the Boy to after-school club when I know the money to pay for it at the end of the month is in the bank.
Assignments have been issued and it’s time for me to take a deep breath and get on with it. I’m thankful for the ability to smile and feel happy and certain that this year is going to be a good one.
What does the beginning of a new academic year remind you of? What hopes and goals do you have for this year?
