I submitted the third draft of my thesis to my advisors last weekend. I also asked if it's possible to defend in the first week of June. I have not received a response yet, but I'm keeping my fingers crossed! It figures that after all the classes and exams, science students still need to work on research proposals, the research itself, large papers, and defense presentations in front of fellow peers and instructors. And how long this process takes varies with each student and each project. Sometimes taking years to complete!
Writing a thesis is completely different from writing for fun. Especially since everything needs to be perfectly cited in the text, making the process only that much longer. Yet another reason why I always said that I'd rather be a field biologist than a primary investigator, or professor. Just thinking about all those grants and proposals, not to mention the reports after the research has been completed... Just the thought if it makes my head hurt.
At least after all this work I have something wonderful to look forward to. I plan on spending time with my parents in Portugal, and I want to leave at the beginning of July. I hope to write while I'm there and practice my portuguese. I'm also in the process of trying to get dual citizenship, so I can go back and forth as I please. Another reason that makes having Portuguese citizenship such a great thing is that with it I can easily travel and live in any of the other European countries, without needing a visa. You better believe that if I get this writing thing in control I'll be spending time in Italy. For sure!
I have already begun to look for marine science workshops and conferences in Portugal. I found one that has peaked my interest which is happening in September. The best part is that it will be taking place in the city my Mom lives in! I am super excited, and am hoping that it's open to the public. Once again, fingers are crossed!
While I'm not writing or networking with other scientists, I plan to just enjoy myself. That includes eating lots of great food, learning my Moms secrets in the kitchen, catching up on some reading, and getting back into shape. My mom and stepdad live along the coast, and the ocean is less than a mile from the house. There is a nice long boardwalk that I plan on becoming acquainted with and running on in the mornings. I also want to bring my yoga mat and brush up on some much needed meditation and flexibility/strengthening exercises. Of course drinking lots of wine and watching soccer games with my dad goes without saying!
Speaking of soccer, I hope my Portuguese team make it far in the FIFA world cup 2010!!!
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