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5/26/2026
Lab Life, Life Lessons, and a Little Bit of Rain
Routine, Gratitude, and the Lab Life
Today is Tuesday. Heading back to school after the long holiday brought a slight wave of exhaustion, but stepping into the lab instantly made everything feel normal again—I guess it’s just my default routine now. I arrived around 10:00 AM, which is my usual time, considering our core lab hours are strictly fixed from 10 to 6 every single day.
Honestly, though? I’m happy. Up until last year, I felt like I was living a pretty pathetic, aimless life, so being this productive makes me feel like my future is finally brightening up. Still, I haven't completely figured out my path. To be frank, I joined this lab because I want to pursue a career in R&D, but I haven't locked down a specific research topic yet. I just hope I can eventually transition into the kind of work our lab is doing right now.
Anyway, as soon as I got to the lab today, one of the seniors asked me for a few PC-related favors—things like watching installation of Windows and running inventory checks. It goes to show that being in a lab isn't just about studying and conducting research; being part of a communal environment means there are always administrative duties to look after.
In the LAB
Academic Realities and Self-Reflection
Later, once classes ended, we were hit with a new assignment. Because I always space out and goof off during lectures, I felt completely lost the moment I looked at the questions. Ugh, what a mess. I really regret not paying closer attention. But then again, I crammed at the last minute last time and managed a great score, so maybe I can pull off a miracle again? I know deep down I shouldn't keep relying on this bad habit, though.
We also had a lab meeting today. Since we recently attended an academic conference, today's session was dedicated to summarizing and presenting a talk that we found particularly memorable. Looking at the other students and seniors, I thought they did an amazing job organizing their thoughts. As for me? Honestly, I fell short. I should have woven more of my own insights into the presentation, but it felt like I just regurgitated explanations. The professor didn't scold me, but it was a serious wake-up call that prompted some heavy self-reflection. I really want to be great at public speaking, but I frankly lack the gift of gab. I'm always pondering how to express myself better and trying to grow. To make matters worse, I have an interview in a week, and I haven't even properly prepared for it yet. Gah, I'm so screwed.
Good Company and Rainy Nights
In the evening, I grabbed chicken and pizza with the lab crew before wrapping up. I was planning to head out with the same lab member I ran into yesterday, but it was absolutely pouring outside. Fortunately, she is also involved in a student club and managed to borrow an umbrella from their club room. Personally, I would've been perfectly fine just throwing my hoodie on and sprinting through the rain, but she insisted, saying, "No way, if you get soaked, it'll smell and feel awful," and brought the umbrella over.
She's such a kind friend. Honestly, there aren't many people in my life who are this thoughtful. Thinking back to high school, I was surrounded by people who did nothing but curse and bicker with one another. If it were them, they might have even snatched the umbrella I had lol. I used to always wish for relationships where I wouldn't have to deal with that kind of emotional drain, and looking at the people around me now, I feel incredibly lucky. They are truly wonderful.
Wrapping Up the Day
After seeing my friend off, I came home and sat down to write this. Ever since I started journaling daily, every little moment of my day feels remarkably vivid. Today marks Day 3 of this habit. I wonder what tomorrow will bring? I should probably stop overthinking, shut my brain off, and get some sleep.
The clock strikes 12:10 AM. The day has already technically passed, but I'll officially call it a night.
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