Grad school and birthdays and emotions, oh my!

Yet again, I find myself at the end of an emotional roller coaster of a week: excitement, nervousness, happiness, and then, apathy.

Two days ago, I had my grad school interview at my top choice school and program. Even though I was nervous at first (like I am for any and every interview I've ever had in my life), I became more comfortable during the half hour that I was interviewed.

After my interview, there was a tour around the school's student center and the school itself, a chance to interact with current students in the program, information about a study abroad tour in Germany, and a few other things. All in all, it was a really busy day, but it was great to finally see the campus I'd been reading about so much in front of me.  The people are so kind, and the campus is gorgeous.

I also got information about graduate assistantships to help pay for school.  Those of you who've read my blog for a while know that within the field of Student Affairs, I'm really interested in Residence Life, Admissions, and Career Counseling. Unfortunately, I didn't see a Career Counseling "booth" at the mini-job fair of sorts that the school provided to us (those who were interviewing/visiting).

However, I had a great conversation with the people in Residence Life (they even have a live-off position available, which is so awesome) and Admissions.  The stipend amount is phenomenal, so even if I did live off campus, I'd still be able to pay rent, and have money left over for food and other essentials.  In addition, the Res Life GA position grants an out-of-state tuition waiver, which is awesome.

I'll know within two weeks if I got into the school or not.  While I'm nervous about it, I'm also really excited for the potential.

Despite all of the excitement, nervousness, and happiness that came along with this visit - as well as being able to chat with friends online during it (you guys are amazing, by the way) - came some surprising news.

As I'd mentioned in my last entry, I learned that my step-grandma was put into hospice on Wednesday. During our 3 hour wait at the airport yesterday, my mom listened to her voicemail for the first time in a few days (I'm an idiot who forgot to pack her phone charger. Oops.) and we learned that my step-grandma had passed away on Friday afternoon.  At this point, I don't know what I'm feeling... if anything.

Granted, yes, she was my dad's last living parent, but I wasn't *that* close to her, which is weird saying, but I don't know how else to say it. Coupled with the fact I've been to a counseling appointment where I let out a lot of emotion about the two deaths that really did impact me, I don't know what's going on in my brain. It's a weird situation and it confuses me.

However, despite all the crazy that's been going on, there is a lot more good than bad, and for that, I'm thankful. But for now, it's a big day at my house: my dad's 60th birthday is today and I'm glad that I got to be home to celebrate with him.