The qualifying exam is a hallmark of the doctoral student experience in nearly every discipline. In STEM disciplines, part of the evaluation is based on a written proposal of the research the student plans to execute over the next two or three years. Even though every student needs to write and present a QE proposal…
Read MoreWorking with an academic mentor can be a challenge. The inherent power dynamics of the mentor/mentee relationship, often enhanced by generational differences and the high-stakes nature of career development, are virtually guaranteed to create conflict at some time within the relationship. Communication in all forms is key to preventing and overcoming those conflicts. And now…
Read More**I want to share that I drafted this piece prior to the stay at home orders related to COVID-19. I believe that these tips and techniques can still apply or be adapted to be useful at this time. However, I want to encourage you to be kind to yourself and not to put too much…
Read MoreDo you think of yourself as a bad writer? Or just not a writer? Is writing a task that you’d rather avoid in your academic career? Take a minute to consider whether this resonates with you. Many of us are surprised by how important writing is as graduate students in STEM, and it can be…
Read MoreAs graduate students a large part of our jobs is to write things down: notes, measurements, analysis, thoughts, ideas, and reflections. It is crucial to think about the goals, the purpose and the audience of our writing, particularly with texts that will have consequences for our careers, but these concepts can often seem nebulous and…
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