As a recent graduate of a Midwest university, I was extremely fortunate to have a compassionate and level-headed advisor. Unfortunately, my life in graduate school was far from ideal. I have two small children and a "real life". That's the kiss of death in a science program. I also have an Air Force commission. My military training was a literal cake walk compared to the mental rigors of graduate school. However, it seems that every graduate student I talk to has endured some sort of similar grief or hazing. I am not, and never have been an unstable person - but I sincerely questioned my sanity continuously while obtaining my degree.
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