Then I took the thesis to the Advanced Degrees office in the University of London's Senate House, which is conveniently the building next to Birkbeck, and handed it to the staff there who are extremely amused by the whole concept of my having ignored it for four years. It's a completely different set of people than it used to be - two young men rather than the terrifying older ladies who put the fear of God into me. (And yes, I've used the term "ladies" on purpose.) They are rushing through the paperwork and will have the examiners' report available for me to pick up tomorrow (Friday) at noon. I have bought them chocolate for being so helpful. I have no idea whether I will get a degree awarded after this considering that Imperial is no longer part of the University of London, but I don't particularly care.
Went to the Induction evening yesterday. It was mostly a waste of my time as I've been to university before (e.g. How to use a university library, What is plagiarism?) but every so often there was something important that I didn't know, so I couldn't fall asleep. I suppose it made me feel more official, although nothing will make me feel more official than having my student card. (Hurry up with the enrollment paperwork, Birkbeck!). Then came home and filled in the annoying Disability Assessment of Needs form, taking the liberty of extending it with two extra pages to fit in all the information, and noting accessibility things mentioned on their website which I've never had available before but would like to try. Am going to actually apply for the Disabled Students' Allowance this time, now that I have been told things I could use it for other than "a laptop".