not so tough time

The DOW is below $8000, Microsoft laying off 5000, Intel 6000, Boeing 4500, just to name a few around the Pacific Northwest. Around the country there're massive layoffs. What's so good about this economy you say? Well, you'll be surprised to find out that not everyone is upset about the economy. Academia, namely research instutions are feeling pretty upbeat. The reason is simple: Better graduates apply to graduate school in tough times, which literally translates to competent workers for a fraction of their worth. At least that's the vibe I'm getting from the professors around here. I won't tell you where I go but you can guess, it's a well funded private instutition in the Midwest that is nearly immune to this economic downturn. Moreover, government agencies are still funding projects left and right, mostly defense projects... not the NIH though.

Anyhow, this might be the best time to return to school and get more training while one waits for the storm to be over. Personally, I'm glad that I'm in school in these times. But in every situation, there're winners and they're losers; The graduating class of 2009 is going to have to scavenge for work. I wish them the best of luck!