What they don't tell you about data collection...

Data collection is proving to be the most frustrating part of the dissertation. People who agreed to interview back out or get new jobs. Companies who agreed to let me survey their employees change their minds.

Then, I go to plan B. Ooops--I didn't create a plan B because I was so sure that Plan A was solid. So, I'm creating Plan B on the fly. No stress here!

Still writing...

Not much to report--still crunching data and writing up the results.

This is the loneliest part of the PhD--solitary work which never seems to end.

I knew what I was getting into, though. It will be worth it in the end!

Dissertation year is a roller-coaster ride...

It is hard to explain to people outside of academe what this year is like. They ask how my classes are going and when I tell them I don't take classes this year, they look at me as if I must have the most luxurious job in the world.

It is much harder to explain that I'm writing a paper that feels like it will never end. While I love what I'm doing, it is also a very bizarre existence sometimes. I write--I stop--I wait--I read, and then I do this all over again.

My new job starts on August 1st, so that is my deadline for completion. I can't imagine starting my new job while also finishing my dissertation, so that is a good goal to have one done before starting the other.

I'm not really a fan of roller-coasters, so I guess I'll need some dramamine for the ride.