Tips for Grads

In our academic pursuits, we tread a challenging path filled with complex research, demanding coursework, and a longing for support from those closest to us. Sharing this experience with your family can be both rewarding and challenging.

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.

During the master’s student panel at New Graduate Student Welcome on August 30, a new master’s student posed a question that I think is relevant to expand on for all graduate students: “What is the best way to connect with professors you want to work with?”

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.

The end of summer is rapidly approaching, and we’re already kicking off another academic year. Whether you’re a new or returning graduate student, I hope you will join the newly redesigned Graduate School Dash & Bash on Friday, September 1.

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.

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.

Why do policymakers and the public want to hear from graduate students? As graduate students we are budding experts in our respective fields. We possess the ability to advocate for policy both locally and nationally.

We’ve all felt nervous to say or do the wrong thing. For me, this is especially true for topics related to diversity and inclusion. As a member of the disability community, I want to share some best practices that I have learned to make my communications inclusive and accessible.

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.