mid-point

It's been exactly 2 months since I arrived here in Vancouver; another 2 months for me before reaching Singapore again (touch-down 11.57pm @ T3 on 30 Dec; effectively 31 Dec) - time for an update!

Shall not blabber on and on about what I've done in the past 9 weeks etc. - that can easily be gleaned from in my FB albums, at least the fun parts, that is. Finances are still ok, though on the low side, but I'll manage! At least all the expenditure for the next two months are kind of mapped out, so hopefully no unpleasant surprises.

Academic-wise, hmmm, so far I'm doing pretty ok/well for two of the modules, though that's within expectations. I don't have any indication for the other three more challenging and intensive modules whatsoever, but I guess the safety net of just-have-to-pass is very reassuring. Coursework has been heavy, but I guess it will all ultimately be rewarding (though the 'rewards' are by no means visible at this stage). In the short term, I've often been tempted to just 'give up' and not bother with the assignments and readings and all that. But hey, if I wanted to do that I would have opted to go to XYZ university, and not an institution with a comparable, even better, ranking.

That thought does keep me going for a while. At the same time, I know that I'm working hard - albeit indirectly - towards the bigger goal of thesis-writing and Honours Year. I know I'll have to start formulating something during the upcoming May/June period through Aug, so that I don't get a panic for my proposal and sources etc. come Nov/Dec '11. Coursework-wise, I'll have to start with HY4000s come next semester, so I need to keep my mind agile and sharp, too. And all of this works towards the even larger and distant goal of eventually doing a Masters - definitely not locally, but overseas, maybe Canada! I love Vancouver, but maybe I should try out the East Coast, though I'll need even deeper pockets for that. And that requires a good Honours graduation. Hmmmm. A friend is doing a local Masters, which I never would do nor agree with, because an overseas experience opens up more than just one's mind. But everyone has different circumstances, so -

As I type away, the beautiful downtown scenery and the rolling mountains beyond beckon - it's good weather, something in terribly short supply of late. I shall enjoy it as long as it lasts, as does my SEP. SEP brings with it a fair share of frustrations, emoness, pain, hardship, whatever - but I think I will look back on this phase most fondly and with a general sense of nostalgia.

For now, let me get back to my art history essay, which I have no idea how to structure. Inspiration will come eventually; let me just overcome procrastination and let the metaphorical ink flow!

Until the next time,

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