# 372: The Truth About Non-Linear Paths in Grad School with Bianca Alba

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/grad-school-femtoring-inclusive-grad-school-stories-personal-development-and-productivity-tips-for-first-gen-bipocs-20584/372-the-truth-about-non-linear-paths-in-grad-school-with-bianca-alba
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/grad-school-femtoring-inclusive-grad-school-stories-personal-development-and-productivity-tips-for-first-gen-bipocs-20584/372-the-truth-about-non-linear-paths-in-grad-school-with-bianca-alba.md
Podcast: [Grad School Femtoring: Inclusive Grad School Stories, Personal Development, and Productivity Tips for  First-Gen BIPOCs](https://stenobird.com/podcast/grad-school-femtoring-inclusive-grad-school-stories-personal-development-and-productivity-tips-for-first-gen-bipocs-20584)
Published: 2026-05-15T07:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://www.gradschoolfemtoring.com
Audio file: https://pscrb.fm/rss/p/prfx.byspotify.com/e/genuina.simplecastaudio.com/aa1399a4-dc5e-4a57-840d-0cb1caf5259b/episodes/a7689482-8e6e-4252-a071-b466119c5f5d/audio/128/default.mp3?aid=rss_feed&awCollectionId=aa1399a4-dc5e-4a57-840d-0cb1caf5259b&awEpisodeId=a7689482-8e6e-4252-a071-b466119c5f5d&feed=RhhQsM37
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Duration seconds: 2219

## Resource

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring Podcast, I speak with Bianca Alba about the realities of taking a non-linear path through graduate school, career transitions, and life as a first-generation working-class Latina. Bianca shares her experience working multiple jobs while completing her master’s degree, navigating higher education without a financial safety net, and confronting the pressure many first-gen students face to “do everything right” in order to succeed. Together, we unpack the emotional and structural realities that shape non-linear journeys and why so many students feel forced into survival mode while trying to pursue their goals. In our conversation, we discuss the financial and emotional realities of working through grad school and the importance of building supportive communities that sustain us through uncertainty and transition. Bianca also reflects on her experience working in public health, job loss despite years of dedication and advancement, and eventually stepping into entrepreneurship. This episode is ultimately about giving yourself permission to move at your own pace, redefining success, and creating a life that aligns with your values.

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## Transcript

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