The Work, the Weather, & the Waiting
Graduate school does not slow down at the midpoint of the semester – if anything, it sharpens. In this Voices of Rutgers-Camden reflection, Alexa Nichols writes straight into that tension with insight and calm. Now the newest member of the Graduate School team, a Rutgers-Camden alum, and a Criminal Justice MA student, Alexa captures the mix of exhaustion, focus, and quiet growth that defines this stretch of the year. Read her full piece and help welcome her to the team.
Meet Alexa Nichols
Mid-Semester, Under Changing Leaves by Alexa Nichols
We’ve officially hit the midpoint of the semester, and with it comes a mix of excitement and exhaustion. The leaves have started to turn colors along Cooper Street, and the air now has that crisp chill. At the same time, papers are due, research projects are taking shape, and a cup of coffee seems to be permanently in our hands. But this is also the time when all the effort starts to come together; when class discussions deepen, ideas start clicking, and we realize how much we’ve grown since the beginning of the semester. This change in seasons, in both the weather and our academic lives, is both challenging and beautiful.
If you’re feeling stretched thin, remember to take a moment to enjoy the small things around us at Rutgers-Camden: a walk through the campus quad under the fall trees, a nice drink and bite to eat at Nuanced Cafe, a quiet study session in the Paul Robeson library, or even a chat with classmates who understand exactly what you’re going through. Graduate school isn’t just about the work, it’s about finding balance and building connections with your peers along the way.
So, as these autumn colors set in and settle, take a deep breath and remind yourself to celebrate the small victories. Every tough assignment, presentation, or exam is a step closer to achieving your goals. While the season may be changing, your dedication will continue to shine.
Related to this story:
Advancing Justice: The Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Program
The Master of Arts in Criminal Justice at Rutgers University–Camden equips students with an advanced understanding of criminal justice and public policy principles. The 30-credit program includes core courses in policy analysis, research methods, and data analysis, complemented by electives that allow for specialization. Designed to accommodate both working professionals and traditional students, the program offers classes primarily on weekday evenings. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in justice-related fields or for further doctoral studies.
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