Typical Graduate Student

Duncan Watts, the author of Six Degrees: The Science of a Connected Age wrote the following about his graduate study:
"Thinking like a typical graduate student, I assumed that the coupling topology question was an obvious one, and therefore the answer must have been worked out long ago- all I needed to do was look it up. Instead of the answer, however, I only found more questions."

Isn’t it interesting? First I read this, I could not help laughing. I also have this tendency to think that my research question is trivial or has been answered. After diving, you will find something unique you can contribute. Critical thinking is a vital ability to be developed and encouraged during graduate study. It does not come from the wind. It comes from extensive reading and writing practice, intentionally and continually challenging my mind, and sometimes focusing on one spot longer.

What is six degrees of separation? Everybody on this planet is separated by only six other people theoretically. One significant factor is the difference between being connected to someone with a short route and being able to actually find that route. Meanwhile, the distance of foreign settings makes the potential for connection irrelevant. That’s why goal sharing could make community thrive.