February was quite a wild ride.

The Technical side Link to heading

I really learned a ton of things here: In January, I focused on preparing samples for transport measurements while in February, I (re) learned how to do all the experiments I did in the past: Magnetization, transport (on a rotator), heat capacity, and even PXRD. Remembering the basics and how each one fits into a puzzle helped me figure out what I was looking for. There are a few things I have learned.

Get a working codebase to plot and see data from experiments faster. Organization is key! (I learned how to use Notion this month).
Have an established workflow to do the things that are most important: talking science with collaboraters, asking questions to peers and mentors, sitting down with the data and thinking.
Make time for yourself: Experiments need to happen but so does your personal growth. Make sure there is still time for you to read on your own and understand the literature.

The Softer Side Link to heading

This month, I did not have a good work-life balance. err… I was able to hang out with my partner and go do Taiko things throughout the weekend. BUT… I worked til midnight every weekday. Unsure if that is okay or if I really just enjoy it. I need to check in with myself to make sure I am going because I want to and no other reason.

I also learned how difficult it is to mentor a student. It is not enough to know the material, but making the right time for them to learn things on their own and trying to keep them interested in a project… is hard to say the least. James helped me out to make a plan for mentoring my undergraduate student and I hope that will put us back on track.

My Accomplishments Link to heading

Ran an experiment by myself
Did an entire crystal growth by myself
Signed up to be James’ student for my PhD