Does anyone else notice this pattern in their studies...?

I've noticed a pattern develop with myself, and I want to share my observation with other degree completers.

On the one hand there are courses, or more especially exams, that one blazes through with a minimum of study. Whether out of distinterest or prior preparation, one bolts into certain prep material and - damn the torpedoes - tests out of the subject. Just do it. (And doing well on a sample exam spurs the process along.)

On the other, there are exams one stalls over taking. Either one is intimidated for cause(perhaps because of prior failure or "math phobia"), or else out of high self-expectations: one simply MUST do well, and so it is put off.

One side benefit of the latter, however, is that one develops new expertise - or else confirms one's prior level of expertise.

Therefore, I offer this survey.

One sure confirmation of the latter is that my library bulges. I view and review my collection, and focus and refocus as a testing looms; I get to a "point of no return" - either I commit (or recommit) to testing with the expectation of doing-well, or else I have to reschedule.

--Orson
BA - Excelsior, 2004
Grad Student - History (here and there - seeking/testing mentors out)
Post Grad Diploma - University of London, Environmental Managment

 

I will be in the just get it over with stage until I have the BS in my hands. When and if I go for the masters, then I will be in the "I want to learn something" mode I'm sure. While I'm in the get it over with phase I know I will cram just to get through it and I doubt much will stick. I'm of the silly opinion that since I've had two successful careers already, the BS is only justifying to someone else I am capable, because I know, by having done, that I am capable without the degree. Once in the masters, I'm proving to myself that I can do it at a higher level. I really wish I could bypass the bachelors and go straight to the masters. Now that would make sense to me.