ActuallyAverageStudySpo

Average and Realistic Studyspo from an undergrad senior.   Anna ~21~she~ Psyc Major, Bio Minor, Pre-Dental, Parasitology Researcher               Main tumblr @CoolioCoulson

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

Hey Everyone!

So I decided to create this b/c I LOVE studyblr/studyspo, but I often get mildly upset when I see most of the pictures because all I can think is “How so pretty? So neat? Much time?” I’m an undergrad senior that will soon be taking the DAT applying to dental schools, and I realized that after 4 years my studying doesn’t fit those categories. Yes, I am obsessed with color-coding. Yes, I rewrite all my notes.  But I don’t have beautiful handwriting or the time to truly go through and make everything fit my aesthetic standards. And I realized that’s okay. 

Studying doesn’t have to be a gorgeous process. Studying is grueling. Sometimes it’s last minute. Sometimes it’s notes scribbles in the margins. Oftentimes it can become a last-second cram session. And I’ve come to accept that even if my studying isn’t beautiful, it’s effective. 

So essentially I’m creating this (for myself) to stay accountable and document the last few months of my undergrad career. But I guess it’s also for any of you students who feel the same when they look at most studyblrs and feel discouraged. I don’t have good filters or acrylic desk organizers or a cute keyboard, but I’ve got a helluva lot of grit, lots of experience, and methods that work for me. 

So if you’re interested, hop on in! The water is tepid. :D

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

12-2-21

Hey guys!

I know long time no hear. It's been a long 6 months of studying for the DAT, submitting applications, interviewing, stress eating, distracting myself in lab..but yesterday I got the email--I'm into my first choice dental school. I'm still in shock. I'm just blissfully happy.

It's been a long road--surviving through undergrad with a narcolepsy diagnosis halfway through, struggling in almost every chemistry and physics class (lol), research, changing my major, graduating, then studying for the DAT and filling out applications all while dealing with some personal losses. But through all the sleepless nights, stress, constant doubt and tears, I've been supported by some amazing people in my life. And as of the last year, that has included you all. Every like, comment, and reblog propelled me forward just a little more, reminding me that I wasn't going through this alone. I sincerely want to thank each of you. I plan to continue this messy lil blog through dental school, but will also be updating this winter and spring. But buckle in everyone, because in August, I'll be a D1 chasing that whitecoat. Ya girl is gonna be a dentist. ☺️

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

7-27-21

Well everyone---I did it! DAT complete! I won't go into boring specifics, but I finished with an AA of 20, which is exactly where I wanted to be. My QR (math) was a little rough b/c the computer kept freezing, but I made up for it with a perfect 30 on RC. I think it was because I wore Pokemon socks into the test center....and yeah, I rewarded myself with an Animal Crossing Switch. I've been waiting to get one for a while (I haven't bought a new videogame system since I got my Red DS lite in second grade), so I'm excited to decompress a bit.

I had a lot of friends supporting me for months, and an unbelievable amount of support for the two weeks before, where I was kinda a wreck. I know I didn't post on here a lot (suffice to say I was feeling overwhelmed and just forgot), but I wanna thank all of you who have offered sweet messages and support. What a great community!

Although my application and test scores are in, I am far from done. Around early September, I will be completing a 10-week dental assisting certification program while I wait to hear back from schools, which will be more studying (but also a lot fo fun!). In addition, I will hopefully be able to post more fun-study stuff like my bujo, books I'm reading for fun, etc.

I just wanna thank you all again, and hope you stick around for the next step of this exciting journey!

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

7-11-21

Hey all, just a bit of an update.

So as many of you know, my DAT was originally scheduled for July 17th. I have finished all of the material and am in the review phase.

Unfortunately, I found out that a close friend of mine had passed away very tragically and unexpectedly. She was also studying for the DAT. I had to go home for the funeral services, and to be quite honest, it is taking a toll on me. It still doesn't feel quite real, and I decided to push back my test to July 23rd to give myself a little extra time.

Here are a few pics from the week, and hopefully more to come. I never expected this side blog to pop off, but you all have been simply amazing. Thank you for all your support and being patient with me.

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

6-15-21

Annnnd that's it everyone--my primary and supplemental applications for dental school are officially in! Now I have more time to just focus on the DAT. The past few days have been...

Bio--lot's of basic review before we get to specific systems--cellular respiration, microbial oxygen requirements, etc. Enjoy my hectic notes-lots of colors and side notes help me stay in an active recall state, esp when combined with quizlets.

PAT-- Finished keyholes (with a few to review each day), and just finished learning TFE theory, so I'm doing approximately 30 a day.

GC-- About halfway through my GC review before we get to orgo--lots of gas rules, more orbital theory, periodic trends, and just starting kinematics.

Nothing yet for QR, and for reading I've just been reading daily science articles.

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

6-10-21

Oh my goodness it's hot out! I'm trying to remember that when I'm studying in my apartment to go out on my patio and enjoy the sun as a nice break. Treated myself tonight by watching the first episode of the new Loki series!

Today was....

Application-- I spent most of today finishing my AADSAS application. I will either submit it later tonight or tomorrow morning, just have a few more supplemental questions but all my experiences, transcripts, awards, and letters of rec are in!!! Yay!

Bio--Nothing (gotta catch up tomorrow)

GC--Finished Quantum numbers and orbitals (holy smokes I couldn't believe how much I've forgotten from freshman chem!)

PAT--more keyholes, as you can see. I'm marking my correct as orange, and incorrect as red.

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

6-5-21

Okay Okay I KNOW ONLY ONE PIC after so long

I was home in CO for 2 weeks, but now I'm back in NE trying to make up for the DAT work I slacked off on at home. Hopefully daily(ish) posts from this point forward. For those of you who don't know, I'm using DAT Bootcamp for my test. The sections on the DAT are Bio, Gen Chem, Orgo, Qualitative reasoning (math), Reading, and PAT (perceptual ability). I'm following a strict schedule up to test date, but am still a few days behind that I'm chugging through.

Today I did...

Bio--Working halfway through Unit 2 on Cell Membrane and Organelles

PAT--Rock Keyholes (gross)...but I'm getting better!

GC--Reviewing basic orbital theory that I haven't looked at since freshman year, lol

Finalizing my personal statement

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

5-19-21

Hello all!

I know it's not my usual post, but it's official--I'm a graduate! B.S. in psychology with a minor in biology. I wanna thank everyone that has followed along with this blog, you all are simply amazing.

My next plan is to post my progress with DAT studying. I think it's a great look into the nitty-gritty of studying for such a large exam for such a long stretch of time (as well as holding myself accountable, lmao.)

Buckle up buttercups, it's gonna be a ride.

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

4-30-21

Spent today enjoying the nice weather and prepping for finals/getting my DAT Bootcamp all set up. Also got inducted to the National Honor Society for Religious Studies (even tho I'm not a theo major or minor, I just really love it and look a lot of classes.) Got my cap and gown--ahhh everything is moving so quickly! I can't believe I graduate in two weeks! Luckily I'm staying here to take the DAT, do a dental assisting program, and hear back from dental schools.

If anyone can’t tell, my coffee always has so be super sweet, lol. 

Day 30-- What is the best advice someone has given you?

I'll give advice from both my Dad and Mom-- My dad, who is a specialized surgeon in derm, always stressed to me that even if I don't to do a profession that requires higher schooling/incredible grades/etc, I need to work like I do. He's always stressed the importance of working hard to keep doors open, even if you aren't gonna pass through them, because you don't want to look back in life (or even realize you might wanna change professions) and realize you closed that door. My mom has always stressed "grit." Kinda a funny word, but she's from the south, and it's used a bit more there. She's always emphasized putting grit into everything you do, and God will do the rest. That being said, I had personalized rings made for me, my sister, and my mom that all read "Grit and Grace," because I think that encapsulates my mentality both in school and life pretty well.

That's gonna be the end of the zoomester challenge for me, but I've really enjoyed it! I'm thinking about doing a productivity challenge, especially this summer as I study for the DAT to help keep me accountable, but I'll let you know! Probably a few finals posts here and there!

[seaoflove]

reading vincent van goghs letters and he keeps repeating the same thing.. that i may be of use in the world. he repeats it over and over, in questions, in musings, in desperation. how can i be of use in the world? (the most precious question!) how can i be of use in the world? (how can anyone?) reminds me of that mary oliver quote: to pay attention, this is our endless and proper work. if i were any more insightful i could say something profound here, but i think if we keep focused attention on the question, we may find a way to be of some good. like rilke meant. by loving the questions themselves, we may one day stumble upon the answer.

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

4-13-21

Quite a day! Had an early physics recitation, woke up early to study for/take my forensic psyc exam, and then had parasitology lab. Had a narcoleptic attack during my online forensic exam 😬but my luckily all my profs know so he was super understanding and I actually did well!

Gold star to anyone who can identify what disease this specimen is the primary vector for!

Day 28- Spill the tea about the things that you’ve done during the zoomester (Online shopping, courses taken, any hobby)

Ohhhh hohoho I am definitely guilty of a bit on online shopping, though I really do try to stay focused during my zoom meetings. I also have gotten very into bullet journaling.

Day 29- Quick! Name your own aesthetic! or alternatively, what’s an aesthetic you’d like to try out?

UHHHHHH I don’t really have an aesthetic? I’d like to think I live a dark academia aesthetic, but really I think I’m closer to a tired cluttered mess dressing up as light academia, haha.

[diaryofastemstudent]

Reblog if you’re an active studyblr on april 12 2021 🤗

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

4-8-21

I know I'm so so late on this challenge, but figure better late than never! It's been a busy week.

Day 26- What has been your best zoomester experience so far?

Honestly meeting new blogs! I had no idea how many other studyblrs there are out there, and how nice they are! I always got intimidated by the community but I feel so much more welcome.

Day 27- If you’re about to graduate, what’s something that you’ll miss from school? If you aren’t about to graduate, tell us something you really love about school.

I think I'll honestly miss my professors. My first response would be to say my friends, but quite a few of them are staying here in the midwest for jobs/gap years like I am, so we'll all still get to hang out. But my professors have been fantastic and I know I'll miss them so so much.

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

3-23-21

It's been a difficult week for me, to say the least. Just trying to figure out what I'm doing next year--probably dental internship as I wait to hear back from schools, but I'm becoming more aware that I might need to take a post-bacc. Idk man, profs are laying it on THICK right now, and I'm really starting to feel the "no spring break" right about now. Just trying to take it one day at a time.

Got some forensic done, and enjoyed a rainy day! It’s gonna be cloudy/rainy the next few days. Also peep me ft. the epure water machine...it takes that thing longer to reach 17 subohms than watching a pot of water boil, lol. 

Day 21- Share a quote that speaks to you.

"The best revenge is massive success." -Frank Sinatra

Okay so yeah, might seem a little vengeful, but it's a quote that has moved me forward for a long time. I have a primarily great support system, but there have (and always will be) people that doubt and put me down. Every time I'm frustrated, bitter, unmotivated, or whatever else, I remind myself that the best way to prove people wrong is through actions. I know I'll get there.

To be quite honest, I had someone close to me tell me that I wouldn't be taken seriously as a doctor/dentist with painted nails and makeup, which are things I enjoy. I've also been told that I'm too sensitive. Since then, I have constantly reminded myself that I am capable of enjoying makeup and still being smart and capable. I've used that quote to remind me that the best way to prove him wrong is to simply chase what I want, being unequivocally myself. My empathy is one of my greatest gifts, not a deterrent.

Day 22- What’s your comfort food/ comfort routine for sad days?

My comfort food is mac and cheese. My routine is to honestly be kind to myself--usually a good meal, and candle, a show on Netflix, and trying to go to bed early.

Day 23- What’s some random miscellaneous piece of information that you just happen to know?

Water makes different pouring sounds depending on the temperature! It has something to do with the temperature affecting viscosity which then affects the pitch when it hits whatever it's being poured into. Maybe that's why I find the sound of pouring tea so satisfying.

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

3-18-21

Day 16- What’s you go-to coffee/tea/beverage order?

I drink waaaay too many kinds of tea, but my main coffee order is a vanilla latte or chai...the sweeter the better!!

Day 17- Share with us your feel good playlist.

So my go-to playlist is actually an alternative Reid playlist I made (ikikik) called Boy Wonder (you can check it out on my spotify at annagosteelers if anyone is interested!) I usually study to lofi or alternative.

It's been quite the week for me--been a little overwhelmed with forensic psyc and have a massive orgo exam tomorrow. But it's finally starting to warm up a tiny tiny bit! Made myself some ramen tonight and decided to ~spice it up~ with some crock pot chicken, mmmmm.

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

3-10-21

Day 9- Write something that you’d like to tell yourself.

I think I'd like to tell myself to stress less about the small things. I often find myself overwhelmed and somethings pushed over the edge by small things that usually end up resolving themselves. So I'd just like to remind myself to breathe before spiraling

Day 10- Tag someone whose aesthetic you love seeing on your feed.

I am ADORING @dayllights aesthetic...everything is so clean and refreshing! Like a breath of fresh air on my dash.

Today our university implemented a "Wellness Wednesday" since all of our breaks got cancelled. I spent today doing laundry, cleaning up a bit, repotting some succulents I just got in, cuddling with the bf, and some orgo. Also peep the new glasses!

[actuallyaveragestudyspo]

3-9-21

I am already the worst for being behind on the zoomester challenge but here's a lil catchup

Day 6- Quickly! tag urself!

ten am. iced coffees. always in a hurry. golden hour aesthetic. remembers the little details. loves old movies.

eight pm.  netflix. cuddles warm sheets. indoors life. loves singing but can’t. sweats. never sleeps.

three am. tired eyes. small sketchbooks. pressed flowers. stargazing from the window.

I couldn't pick one...I know it's against the rules but I am definitely a combo of these three.

Day 7-  Some of your music faves right now (let’s say up to 5)

- Sour Candy by Melt, Face to Face by Rex Orange County, Bittersweet by Greer, True Crime by DREAMERS, and as always, everything by Mumford and Sons.

Today was in parasitology lab (for class, not research) and we're doing blood and liver flukes, which is so so so cool. Then treated myself to some popcorn while writing up a forensic report and risk assessment for my forensic psychology class.