The transition from coursework to the next phase of the program does seem a bit overwhelming (see recent posts).  However, even small steps toward my goal help provide a sense of accomplishment.

The reportable “small step” in this update is that I now have a complete committee.  Woohoo!  I’m now officially off of the recruiting trail and can now focus more fully on writing my fields and completing my directed reading.  I was pointed in the direction of a professor in PIA (Public and International Affairs) within GMU who is an expert on Russia.  After having a good conversation about the process in SPP and my research interests, he agreed to be the third member of my committee.

So, the phrase that pays is “progress” … now, it’s back to writing.