Tips for Grads: Imposter phenomena and ways to cope with it

As graduate students, we often find ourselves thinking, “I am not smart enough. I was just lucky to get this opportunity. I don’t deserve this praise,” and feeling overwhelmed when someone speaks highly of us. In some cases, imposter phenomena can be a catalyst for growth. On the other hand, it can also lead to increased anxiety, depression, and career burnout.

Tips for Grads: Creating a semester plan

A semester plan is a useful tool for graduate students because much of the writing and research we do lacks the built-in accountability that typically comes with classes and jobs. A semester plan can keep you grounded through the ebbs and flows of the semester and combats a consistent challenge: managing unstructured time.

Tips for Grads: Summer wellbeing and productivity

In my last column, I provided practical tips to stay on track with your academic and personal goals during summer through reflection, planning, and celebrating achievements. Let’s build on that by focusing on wellbeing, since how good we feel is closely linked to our conceptions of productivity.

Tips for Grads: Staying on track in the midst of summer

Summer is a busy, exciting time when graduate students engage in various activities that support their degree progression, including fieldwork, accelerated classes, internships, independent reading, and proposal writing. Here are some practical tips for a midsummer check-in that promotes resilience, success toward your goals, and preparedness for the upcoming fall semester.

Tips for Grads: Basic needs resources

Being a graduate student presents its own set of unique challenges, including meeting your basic needs. Navigating the resources available can be daunting but the basic needs team within the Office of Student Financial Aid is here to help! We can provide guidance in finding resources for food insecurity, rental/housing concerns, insurance assistance, and clothing needs.