Transitioning from life post college can be quite a challenging prospect. Profess Cathy Davidson founding director of the futures initiative did an excellent job in gathering some the best minds together to discuss the best way to tackle this daunting task. Young scientist Calvin Herman presentation really stood out to me. Title “what I wish I knew before interviewing for PHD program in stem” . This young scientist reflected on his journey through his PHD interviews and proceeded to provide many tips and tools everyone can use when going through a similar process. “Know your research inside out” this stood out to me as he highlighted a simple yet important fact. It’s imperative to do your research and come prepared to the interview process. This can even breed confidence as opposed to going into the process blind Another key fact that stood during his presentation was “What was known about the field before you conducted your research?” This goes a step beyond just scratching the surface. Understanding where we come from will most definitely help one understand where we are going. I thought this was essential as it requires one to step back and get the full picture. This can be hard to do for someone fresh out of college as you may be frantically looking for interviews, jobs, resources, it’s imperative to get the big picture understanding where the trends are, this I believe can be a key weapon everyone can use as they begin transitioning from classroom to real life. Another present or. cherishe Clark reminded us of the importance of building relationships with mentors. This can key as when you will inevitably need a letter of recommendation or simple guidance, it will be easy to go to this individual for assistance as you have been build up a healthy rapport with them.
While transitioning from classroom to work life and graduate education can be tough , the tools and wisdom provided by Professor Cathy Davidson and Co from classrooms to careers listening session will certainly go a long way in making this process less stressful .
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Llewellyn, I think you captured the listening sessions in the most fitting title! “The Metamorphosis of the College Undergrad” Because it is a transformation. We go through our respective journeys, and acquire as much knowledge and wisdom as we can along the way. Sometimes the blueprint does not exist. However, we can prepare ourselves to have many tools under our grasp. This looks like building upon research for our passions and work and establishing good relationships with people teach us.