Today was my "first day of school," although I had an awesome series of welcome and orientation events last week. I actually did not have class today, but I did spend 10 hours with my advisor, who led an evaluation capacity-building workshop with 4-H Extension agents in Virginia. I had not been involved in a workshop like this since my time at Cornell when I worked as a research assistant in CORE, the evaluation research office/ lab (over two years ago). Getting to help out with evaluation training was an excellent way for me to begin my graduate work at Virginia Tech. I am really looking forward to all of the hands-on work ahead (in addition to data collection, analysis, and writing)!
This weekend, I will be moving to Blacksburg, Virginia to begin my Ph.D. in Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education, with a focus on program evaluation at Virginia Tech. I will be moving 360 miles away with my daughter and great-uncle. I am looking forward to several events of my first week there, including the graduate student orientation, my departmental orientation, and a minority student luncheon. I am worried about not having childcare for my daughter, but hopefully she is able to attend our local elementary school through Virginia's Preschool Initiative. Although my daughter's father won't be joining us, I am confident that Uncle will provide much support, as he has throughout my life. As I begin my doctoral studies at Virginia Tech, I will technically remain a student at the University of Delaware, until my Master's degree in Human Development & Family Studies is conferred. Hopefully, I am able to thrive as I manage the requirements of graduate studies in both programs, my new research assistantship, and my family. There is much change ahead and I am up for the challenge!
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AuthorI am an Assistant Professor of Public Health who engages in research, evaluation, and community work that effects positive change in individuals, families, and communities. Archives
June 2020
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