Three years of graduate studies have culminated and I find myself having come full circle to my earlier twenties when I finished my first undergraduate degree and was overwhelmed with the feeling of “Now what?”  Indeed this exact question has been asked many times by colleagues, family or friends.  What will I do with this degree?  

The truth is I have absolutely no idea.  

I do know that it took a significant amount of time away from my loved ones and hobbies.  I know that it easily added five or more pounds to my physique and accelerated the amount of grey hair on my head (gaining wisdom perhaps?).  I know I had the choice to take the easier path like so many others.  Instead I took the beaten path which ended up being more arduous and consisting  of an intense project and research equivalent to the human gestational period.  I know I did exceptional work but struggled to keep my head above water and balance all the facets of my life.  I know my path was dark and isolated many times.

I know I lost faith in some things or people along the way. I know at times that person was myself.  I know I have the skills and knowledge that can lead to more insightful teaching and the ability to inspire others.  But that’s it for now.

I do not know if my success will measure up to the standards we tend to impose.  I do not know where it will lead but I do know that all paths lead somewhere even the ones that appear to go nowhere.  

With time and determination we may just turn a corner and be surprised at where we end up.