Graduate Ed. ever feel pointless?

Discussion in 'General Distance Learning Discussions' started by Paidagogos, May 30, 2012.

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  1. Paidagogos

    Paidagogos Member

    I'm a little more than halfway done with my MA in Interdisciplinary Studies at Western New Mexico University, and although I am enjoying my study, at times it feels a bit pointless. Maybe that owes a lot to the interdisciplinary nature of this degree, and the fact that there is no clear career path.

    But, ultimately, I don't feel it is entirely pointless because I majored in History and minored in mass communications in my undergrad days, and I really feel that this degree is really just a continuation of those skills - learning to be a better writer and researcher. I really hope that after I graduate I will at least be able to teach some classes online, or in the classroom part-time.

    Obviously, this degree is not going to be the be-all and end-all, but I do hope it will open up so doors. After I finish this degree I would probably go on to other, perhaps more practical study in other areas, but I'm just not exactly sure yet what I would want to study.

    I guess my question is now is, does anyone hit a point in their studies where it feels kind of pointless? And, how do you remain motivated when this feeling crops up? Just wondering!
     
  2. mattbrent

    mattbrent Well-Known Member

    I was just like you. I majored in History and minored in Communication as an undergrad as well. I really with WNMU would offer graduate communication classes. That'd be sweet! But here's something I recall from when I was working on the MA there. I don't remember where I read it (it may have been one of my professors telling me), but it said that the WNMU program was designed for teachers trying to get 18 hours in a discipline. If that's the case, the career path is clearly higher education. I did it for that, and for recertification points. Many states require teachers to earn a masters degree within "X" amount of years.

    But, yes, like you I got to the point where I thought it was pointless. It was definitely during my Spring 10 semester. I am an "A" student, but my wife was pregnant with my son, I was teaching advanced classes that needed a TON of planning, and there were a lot of other things going on. I think I just said "screw it" that semester, and barely piddled through. I got a "C" and a "B". I was disappointed, but I can't say I didn't earn it. I missed quizzes... I turned in assignments late... I was an awful student that semester. Fortunately things picked up, and I'm SOOOO glad I finished. The WNMU MA has definitely opened doors, and I'm currently in the running for a full time gig at the local community college where I'm an adjunct. Stick with it. It'll pay off!

    -Matt
     
  3. ryoder

    ryoder New Member

    I feel the same way a lot of the time but I really enjoy what I am doing at NCU.
     
  4. Paidagogos

    Paidagogos Member

    Thanks for the words of encouragement Matt! I figure if you could keep pushing through your coursework with your wife pregnant and teaching all those classes then I can do the same with considerably fewer responsibilities on my plate. I won't complain. After this summer semester, I've only got four classes left and a thesis to write, so I can see the end in sight. You gave me just the boost I needed. Thanks!
    :usa1:
     
  5. Bruce

    Bruce Moderator

    Every graduate student gets into a rut once in awhile, it's perfectly normal and you shouldn't be too concerned. As I mentioned in another thread, I suggest setting one day aside as "no school" day, where you don't think about school, don't talk about school, don't login to your classroom......do absolutely nothing that has to do with school. It helps.
     
  6. Paidagogos

    Paidagogos Member

    Thanks for the advice Bruce!
     
  7. mattbrent

    mattbrent Well-Known Member

    Looking back on it, I WISH I had done the thesis option. Kudos to you on going that route!

    -Matt
     
  8. Psydoc

    Psydoc New Member

    I am not sure the thesis option is now available.
     
  9. Paidagogos

    Paidagogos Member

    I get the impression that teachers really don't like to do it, largely perhaps because it translates into extra work and oversight of the student's progress, but they will allow it if the student really wants to write a thesis, or needs it for career/academic goals. I have already informed them that I may go on to either Ph.D. work, or another master's and I would like to have a polished piece of graduate writing to use if/when I apply for programs.
     
  10. edowave

    edowave Active Member

    I felt that way through my entire PhD program. I did a management degree in an engineering department, taking most of my courses in geography and urban planning. Sometimes interdisciplinary feels more like nondisciplinary.
     

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