So what's new in your life?

[Tehwilburforce]

Poor Farore (and kitty)... I hope you heal up soon!

We were briefed today on how the world of college research generally operates. I gotta say; I don't think I've been so pumped up and nervous at the same time. I want to do well and look as good as others in the program who came from fancy private schools, but everything I have to learn makes me worry a bit about screwing something up. Right now, I am reading a research publication based on my mentor's work in order to make a good first impression with him. I also need to look up publications from other profs in the Comp Sci department in case I meet them and get a general grasp of the safety rules within 2 days.

If anyone has experience with stuff like this, could you please say something- no -anything to make me feel a bit more confident. I'd appreciate it because, right now, I think I could go nuts.

[chrisb]

I don't have experience in research, but I will say that what you do may seem impossible, but all you can do is your best and it will usually work out. You can't stress about the what ifs because that's just wasted time you could use to relax or study. You just have to take it day by day and do what you can. You are a smart person and I expect you will go far. It's natural to be scared, but try and look too far ahead. You have to relax, take a deep breath, do what you can. You shouldn't go out of your way to impress your prof either. Just work as hard as you know you can and I'm sure that will be more than enough to show everyone what you are made of. Not saying don't get a head start on your studying, but don't overthink things either.

[Bear]

I don't have any advice as far as college research, but I will echo Crispy's advice, as I think it is pretty sound. Don't over-stress yourself, it usually works against you. Do as much work as you can reasonably do and rest assured knowing you put forth as much effort as possible. Confidence can be found through diligence and experience and even if you work hard and come short, the experience will pay off in the end or in other situations.

[Farore]

It sounds to me like you're on the right track Wilbur. As everyone said, stay calm and don't stress!

My parents, wonderful as they are, showed some great sympathy for my bite.

Dad: Poor cat...how would you feel if you woke up and some human had stuffed their hand into your mouth...silly human!

Mom: Good grief. You'd better watch eating tuna fish at lunch and then stuffing your hand into cat's mouths.

[Luc of True Wind]

@ Wilbur:

From someone who has been in college, grad school and now post-grad (wow that makes 8 years of higher education...good gracious ) doing your absolute best and just enjoying your time learning new things is what will matter most. College is exploration and development time. Your are learning about then things you may want to do for the rest of your life, and you have the freedom to choose what you learn. Enjoy it! Get to know the people around you, learn to cooperate with them and make connections. Undergrad is tons of fun, but also make sure to learn to manage your time and plan well. You will be just fine! I remember when I began undergrad at UC Berkeley, I felt so dumb because there were so many intelligent people around and the classes were difficult, but always told myself to do the best I can and that I was chosen to come here because I am also intelligent. Go forth and discover!

[RollCasket]

On the I-15 headed to LA to go to AM2! About an hour out and we're super excited. This is actually going to be the first con I've ever been to!!

-Farore

[Tehwilburforce]

Thank you Luc. That makes me feel better. I have been challenging myself a lot more to put more work into both what I'm supposed to learn and what I want to learn. I have almost no comp sci experience, but they've started me out learning Python coding with a tutorial from Google. It's relatively easy so far, and I'm taking notes on what each and every thing I type does to the program as a whole. Right now, though, I'm taking a break and getting into some more writing. I was inspired today by all the awesome people going against unknown odds on Kickstarter (much like Bear and Pie) to get their projects, in which they can do what they love, funded. If I get some good leeway, I'll add a new thread and post my story so far. I hope you guys will like it.

[Farore]

It sounds like you are definitely putting your best effort and care into your internship. I've heard it many times before, but it is absolutely true: You will get out of it what you put into it. Seeing as my college experience was rather boring I think it would be awesome to hear about how your's is going and the neat things you're learning!

Roll and I had a great time at AM2, though we spent way more than we should have.
It was so much fun to experience a convention and see all the wonderful artists showing their work.

[Tehwilburforce]

I have moved back into the dorms for week 2 after seeing some friends all weekend before they leave. I won't see them for a while, so I'm glad I spent time with them. Brought my bulletin board over to the dorm and tacked a bunch of awesome stuff up, including some stuff Bear and Pie will recognize from my Kickstarter box. :3

I'll make sure to take pics and post 'em later. G'night everyone!

[Fixxxer 117]

Australia finally gets a dam R18+ rating for video games starting January next year!