Things I've Been Loving

I’ve been quiet throughout the academic year, and that’s because graduate school has been insanely busy and difficult. There have been lots of lows and only a few wins until now. Between academic stress, the poor weather, and the intense subjects in lectures, I’ve been emotionally spent. Unlike lots of my peers, my course is a lot more demanding and required so much from us than any other course in the post graduate program. I don’t hate it, but I don’t think I’ve taken self-care serious at all during my time here. I’m not upset or depressed, but feeling overwhelmed. Since I’m turning a new leaf in the academic year, I thought I would spend a little bit of time taking care of myself and doing more fun things for me! I am on this beautiful campus, and there is just so much to look forward to! To start this transition in the right step, I thought I would share a few things I’ve been loving about being here that trumps the difficult times.

Early Morning Walks

St. Andrews is known for its views and ruins. The ancient town has so much to offer and at the same time, it’s small enough that it doesn’t feel intimidating at all. I’ve been loving waking up extra early on Sunday’s and going for a long walk before heading to the library for the rest of the day. I’ll take my camera and practice my photography and I think it has since developed and refined!

Business Security

Now this is going to be a random one, but I decided to focus my research around business security in the Middle East and Central Asia. My dissertation will focus on oil politicization, but I’ll be then specializing in helping companies understand the risk and security for entering those markets! I find that the combination of business, politics, and international relations is a riveting one.

Cooking with Friends

My creativity in the kitchen has been incredible! Between having to use new-to-me ingredients living in a new country and learning about my dorm mates traditional dishes, it’s been a great thing that I’ve been resorting to when I do need to step away from the books. I’m so much more confident in the kitchen than ever before and I love trying new drinks, treats, and dishes! We take turns now cooking dinner and all just pitch in at the end to one another. This way not everyone has to cook and it’s super fun trying new dishes. Some of the dishes I’ve made for my friends are a Thai green curry noodle soup, fusilli with caramelized onions and mushroom with brown butter sage sauce, and baked salmon kabobs!

Dressing in Layers

I thought this was going to annoy me when I first started classes, but I love the idea of dressing in layers now. The act of taking on and off a jacket or a coat makes me feel a little more sophisticated and composed. Growing up in Florida, you don’t get to do the dressing in layers bit because it’s just already too hot! This has been a fun way to dress!