If you haven’t listened to Episode 3 yet, you can do so here or under “All Episodes”!
I really wish I knew…
In honor of the (way too quickly approaching) 2018-2019 academia year, we thought it would be good to give the new grad babies (affectionally called, of course) some advice based on what we wish we knew when starting our programs. Trust me, we were not—and still aren’t—pros at this, but we each learned a bit along the way.
Here is what we want you all to know (though the list could be much, MUCH longer):
- It will feel like your life has “stopped” at times while everyone else’s has moved on without you. Grad school is a big deal, and your life is moving forward too. Everyone’s path looks different and that is okay.
- The importance of your cohort; they can be an awesome asset! No matter who it is, find your tribe!
- Keep time for your hobbies. I like to craft and knit, because it give me something to do while relaxing (because the anxiety of not doing anything is pretty real, y’all).
- You are not alone in this! (I truly cannot say this enough.)
- Networking with others at your university and outside of it. Start small and build from there. You may make an awesome connection but asking something about their research after a conference session.
- Learn how to say NO! (This is still so hard for me, but I will learn alongside you.) Think about your priorities and realistically delegate your time.
Resources*:
Every academic has resources they LOVE and cannot academic without. Here are some of ours!
- Citation software like Zotero and Endnote
- BACKUPS (in whatever form you prefer)
- The Professor Is In (Dr. Karen Kelsky’s new book is out now!)
- Your campus writing center
- Mental health counseling
- IT (They are your friend and can save you $$$!)
Remember, everyone’s graduate school experience is different and your path is unique. Talk to your mentors, peers, friends, etc. to see what has worked for them. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help and advice, because you are not in this alone.
Self-Care:
For this episode’s self-care activity, Zach showed Kristen how to chop wood, and I am kind of sad I wasn’t there! Zach has found that chopping wood for the wood stove is a great de-stress activity after a long day. I can imagine that the warm, crackling fire would be the best part of that activity.
Thanks for listening, all. Until next time, keep on surviving!
Rachel
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*We are NOT sponsored by any of these folks. We just like them. 🙂