Principles and Practices of Graduate Research

Catalog description

A series of discussion-based workshops that help incoming PhD students in materials science and engineering form a cohort and succeed in their first year and beyond. Professional development topics include strategies for: matching and communicating with a research advisor, preparing and practicing for the PhD qualifying exam, transitioning from undergraduate study to graduate study, navigating professional responsibilities, persuasive writing for fellowship and funding applications, career planning and goal setting with individual development plans, and communicating professionally with elevator pitches. Qualifying exam and fellowship preparation create a framework for building personal and professional connections with other students.