I had to take a “Graduate Board Oral Examination” — typically called a GBO and synonymous with “qualifier” — in order to be able to get a Hopkins PhD. It’s necessary and not sufficient, of course, as I still need to do a thesis defense. I was fairly worried about it, and with good reason, but things went very well and now I’m one step closer to graduation.

Now all that’s between me and the PhD are a few simulations and a lot of writing. I think I’m going to employ Anthony Burgess’ Martini Method. 1000 words per day, after which I can have a martini, relax, etc.

There’s also the small issue of my baby arriving soon, which will certainly complicate matters.