So far in the semester, things have been going better than expected. I really enjoy the model of self education with perfection in the classroom, like I mentioned in my other entry I had my serious suspicions about the way that this was set up but overall, I find it rewarding to be able to solidify a concept in my head at home before even coming to class.
In class, the other members of my table have been just exceptional as a support chain. Concepts that I do not fully understand are usually understood by one of my classmates at the table and when they don’t understand, I am usually able to provide some level of clarification. It is a system that I’m sure the other two would say works well.
Chemistry this semester, and in general, I have found to be particularly challenging, but in a good way. I am for the most part, mathematically minded and I love solving problems, or at least the method of solving problems. I don’t deal very well with the abstract so wherever I can get a fairly solid answer, I’m pretty happy. This year’s chemistry has been primarily math based, the act of using formulas and arithmetic to find an answer is enjoyable to me.
Another topic that I feel could be discussed in a positive light is the labs. While a few of them have been fairly monotonous, such as the titration labs, the calculations and graphs that I have been able to do with them has been fun. I like seeing the end product and being pleased with the results. In both instances where I have made graphs this semester I have had pretty textbook looking curves so that was nice. Also, like aforementioned, The calculations to reach an endpoint and being able to use my graphs to get a answer that is semi close to what it should be is kinda like a sport for me and immensely enjoyable.
One thing that I have been struggling with is time management this semester. I took things easy last semester but I really ramped up my work hours this semester and my reserve unit is taking on a mission that requires a lot of work to be done at home in preparation for it. all of this means that I have to be diligent in keeping up with my tasks, both at home, at work, at school, and in the Army.
I think that something I could benefit from is keeping a planner. I have bought planners in the past with the intention of using them but a lot of the time I would write a few things at the beginning of the semester and then forget about it for the rest. For the most part I would do okay at remembering to do things but this year has been a tsunami of work. I do believe that if I could steadfastly use a planner to its full capacity I would be much better with my time.
