WEEK 2 Thriving in Graduate School: Your Essential Guide to Success

Discussions for Week 2 “ Thriving as Graduate Students”

Hipp, J. (2019, March 19). 10 Tips for new doctoral students. Insider Higher Ed. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2019/03/19/advice-students-just-beginning-their-phds-opinion

I choose to read the  10 Tips for new doctoral students by Dr. Jamie Hipp

I find these tips to be highly practical and insightful. Dr. Hipp in her writing, addresses many aspects of doctoral study that new students might overlook, from building a support network to strategically positioning oneself for future career opportunities. I particularly appreciate the emphasis on:

1. Proactive engagement: The advice encourages students to take initiative in their academic journey, from seeking out mentors to volunteering for service opportunities.

2. Strategic thinking: Tips like considering geographic location for future employment prospects demonstrate the importance of long-term planning.

3. Balancing academic and practical skills: The article highlights the value of both scholarly pursuits (like publishing) and practical skills (like teaching experience).

One area where I might add to the author's perspective is the importance of maintaining work-life balance and mental health during doctoral studies. While the tips focus on academic success, it's crucial to remember that self-care and maintaining relationships outside of academia are also vital for long-term success and well-being.

From the article, I came across with questions

1. Given the diverse academic backgrounds represented in our cohort, how might the applicability and implementation of these doctoral success strategies vary across different fields of study? What discipline-specific considerations should be taken into account when adapting these tips?

2. Considering the current competitive landscape in academia, particularly the potential over-saturation of doctoral graduates in certain fields, what additional career development strategies or alternative career paths should doctoral students explore to enhance their post-graduation prospects?