The coming break

Mentally glancing over the tasks I have set for myself over the winter break, I am a bit daunted:

1. See Turkey (4-16 December)
2. Complete and submit papers for developing world seminar
3. Complete a very considerable amount of thesis reading
4. Write a draft of the first three thesis chapters: Introduction, Literature Review, and Background to Case Studies
5. Substantially advance the process of finding a job for next year
6. Complete tasks that have been in my “important but not urgent” pile for weeks of months – for example, reading some papers people have sent and reconfiguring part of the OUSSG webpage
7. Find something to do for Christmas?

That said, there are six entire weeks to work with. If I can cajole my brain into a productive mode and keep it there (through the application of coffee and tasty stir-fries), the above list should be manageable.

Going into the next term with half the thesis written will certainly reduce the depth to which I descend into madness as that April 22nd deadline approaches.

Author: Milan

In the spring of 2005, I graduated from the University of British Columbia with a degree in International Relations and a general focus in the area of environmental politics. In the fall of 2005, I began reading for an M.Phil in IR at Wadham College, Oxford. Outside school, I am very interested in photography, writing, and the outdoors. I am writing this blog to keep in touch with friends and family around the world, provide a more personal view of graduate student life in Oxford, and pass on some lessons I've learned here. View all posts by Milan