What goes around comes around, I guess...

I just got word from an old co-worker and friend that the company that I used to work for just laid off a lot of people, much the same way the same company laid off my Dad almost a year ago. I'm sorry for all of those that lost their jobs. I can definitely appreciate how they feel. Stay strong, everyone! You have my best wishes.

PHD Post

In the next few years, I'm planning on applying for a Ph.D program, presumably in Biostatistics, Epidemiology, or some other Public Health related field. There is a program that I may be able to swing and get into while working, but that's a lot of work on either end. Besides, I think I'm going to take an undergrad course in geographical information systems, or GIS for short. This will definitely help be get better at my job and add another dimension to my skill set. It may not even be worth going for a Ph.D because I can get training in a different capacity for much less time and effort, making me a marketable commodity within the organization I work for. I do like where I'm working now. Best job I've ever had, and probably ever will have. Although, I wonder if the title of "doctor" is worth it. My roommate seems to think so. Thoughts?

Time has passed and here we are

It's been over a year since I posted here. A lot has happened, but I'll try to keep it as brief as possible.

- Graduated from graduate school with my master's degree.
- Left job, got a job, left that job, and got one last job that I intend to stick with.
- Started working out more seriously. Great stress relief.
- Saw the second Captain America movie and thought it was awesome.

Now onto the present:

- Big fan of TeamFourStar. Going to see them in Connecticut in July this year.
- Plan on posting podcasts, videos, and Let's Plays, now that I have the capability to do so.
- Getting into PC gaming. Loving it!

So, yeah... boring stuff. Until the next post at least. Here's what I've been into recently. The abridged version of Yu Yu Hakusho by Lanipator (lanipwned.blogspot.com; Lanipator on YouTube and as a part of TeamFourStar). Check out the link: Yu Yu Hakusho Abridged Playlist.

I swear I'm going to be a presence on the Internet someday...

Google Analytics

Hi All,

I know it's been a while since I've been on here, but now that school is finally over and done with I have some time to put some of my original thoughts to paper again (figuratively speaking).

I had an idea and would like some feedback. Google Analytics may be something that I want to get into. For those who don't know, it is a way to track information and traffic on a website that you control. I would like to run a website that I control and perhaps work with others on this. I think it would be fun. The only question is, what will the overall theme of the website be about? I want something that will really grab people's attention and keep them coming back for more. Any suggestions?

Cody

While I wait, I'll wait some more.

This is it. The final push of the semester. It seems like a never-ending game of "hurry up and wait." I guess that's the nature of the beast, but that doesn't make it any less stressful. I really want this semester to be over just so I can be done with it. I'm ready to move on.

Next semester, I have a feeling I'm going to be a little bit busier, simply because of the fact that I am taking my final two classes, sitting in on one that I have already taken (which was recommended to reinforce my knowledge in the subject matter) and working at my current research assistant position. Now, the difficult decision of whether to get a job or go to get a Ph.D in statistics or biostatistics is slowly rearing its ugly head. I'll send out my apps this week. It needs to get done.

More to come, but here are the courses I'm taking in the Spring of 2013:

STAT 360 - Linear Models

STAT 295 - Applied Logistic Regression & Survival Analysis

STAT 261 - Statistical Theory (Already taken it, but I'm sitting in on this one)

Somber News this week

Well, what can I say? It's been a very humbling week so far. Just heard that a family member of mine has cancer. When I was told about it, I was shocked, to say the least. All this after this summer, when one of my closest friend's mother passed away after a long and arduous battle with it. This morning, I heard that another's father has just passed away, just a couple of days before Thanksgiving. My heart and prayers go out to all of those who have lost loved ones. I want everyone who reads this to do me a favor: give someone a hug today. You never know what kind of battle they might be fighting. I know it helps me, and I think that everyone could use some love sometimes, especially now, during the beginning of the holiday season, when people are supposed to be happy and relaxed. It kills me to hear that others have the misfortune to have lost loved ones, no matter what time of year it is. I have lost my share, as I'm sure others have to. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Now, and always.

I'm not a very religious person, but I do believe in a certain kind of balance in the universe. I think people need to feel the way they feel in reaction to certain events for a reason. Be it negative, positive, or something in between, I believe that every "feeling" is necessary for us as people to grow and mature. To become better than we are right now. Isn't that the goal that our deceased loved ones wanted for us? To be the best "us" that we can be? I believe this to be so.

Wrapping up, my sincerest wishes of good faith to all. God bless us, everyone!

My last Thanksgiving Break is upon us!!!!

I never thought that I would utter this phrase, but next week is my last week off for Thanksgiving break. I don't think people get a whole week off for Thanksgiving if they're not in school, unless they ask for it off.

Bottom line, not sure how I feel that this is my last Thanksgiving as a student before I start building my career  via full-time work. I have to say, I do look forward to not having to bring my work home with me. It'll be a nice and welcome change of pace marking the next chapter of my life. Looking forward to it.

Anyway, just wanted to put down a quick word. Peace!