Graduate School :-( or :-) ?

There's nothing like going home to give you a new perspective on an old problem.

For months now, I have been deliberating over whether to begin working full time or go to grad school. I got an e-mail Saturday from the graduate coordinator at University of Arkansas. He said that I was officially accepted into the masters of science in mathematics prorgram at UA, but that I didn't get an assistantship. (This struck me as funny, because I never acutally turned in an application for one...) Anyway, I got online and actaully looked at the course schedule for next fall. It looks like I can get away with only having classes MWF. That means only commuting three days a week, and being able to work part time TT. I also found out that I still have some educational funds available to pay for this. I realize all of this sounds great, like everything is going my way.

The problem is that I have serious doubts about my ability to do the math required in a masters program. I didn't choose math as a major because I am incredibly good at it, or even because I particularly enjoy it. I choose it because I knew there was a shortage of math teachers. I love to teach. Anything. I would have been happy teaching English or Science or whatever. Math was just one option among many. It worked out fine during my undergraduate studies. Once I changed my major to math, I got only 1 B (I got Bs in Calc II and III, but I was a music major while I was taking them). Once I start my masters though, the classes are going to be very different. Modern algebra (the only class I got a B in) was completely incomprehensible to me, and it is the foundation for most of the stuff you do in grad school. It is all theory and proofs with very little application (the part I was good at). I know I need a masters in math (not eduation) if I ever want to teach at the college level. I just don't want to waste my time and money on something beyond the scope of my abilities.

I also want to start teaching. I mean, I went to school for 3 1/2 years and now it's like - your degree isn't good enough: get another. I love being in the classroon and working with students. If the school I am subbing at right now offered me a full time job for next year, I would want to take it. I just don't know what to do.

On a happier note, I had a great time seeing the fam and hanging with Heather. We conquered many pictures, postcards, tickets, and brochures. I now have over 100 scrapbook pages completed. Only 200 more to go! ;-) I am planning on being in Bossier again in two weeks to celebrate Heather's b-day, Brian's grandpa's 70th bday, and mother's day. Ah... killing so many birds with one stone.

On a final note, have you heard of Matisyahu? Hisidic Jew Reggae Rap. Screaming fans throw sheets with holes in them up on the stage. Need I say more?
http://www.hasidicreggae.com/

Leave a comment. Give me advice about the whole grad school thing. Have a great week. Long days and pleasent nights.