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Life of a Grad Jag IU Indianapolis

Resources for IU-I Grad Jag Parents

Posted on by grademis

By: Shaquitta Dent, Graduate Student, School of Health and Human Sciences

As a soon-to-be Grad Jag parent, navigating the Ph.D. life has been a positive and manageable experience. One of the key factors contributing to my pregnancy/academic journey is surrounding myself with a support team. In addition, advocating for my needs as a student parent has alleviated the stress of potential parenthood.

Indiana University-Indianapolis (IU-I) recognizes the unique challenges faced by graduate students who are also parents and has developed a range of resources to support them in achieving a balance between their academic and family responsibilities. The IU-I Graduate Office offers a Grad Parent Network, which connects graduate students who are parents with each other for mutual support and resource-sharing. This network provides a platform for parents to discuss strategies for managing academic demands while raising a family, fostering a sense of community among those facing similar challenges. The Grad Parent Network meets monthly and will resume their meetings in January https://graduate.iupui.edu/support/student-organizations/gpn.html

Moreover, IU-I ensures that there are facilities and services catering to the needs of student parents. The campus includes lactation rooms equipped with amenities to support breastfeeding mothers. Additionally, campus offers Childcare Resources and Referral services to assist graduate student parents in finding suitable childcare options, offering guidance on reputable local daycare centers and resources for financial assistance. This service is designed to alleviate the stress of balancing academics and parenting by helping students secure reliable and affordable childcare solutions.

Financial support is also available for graduate student parents at IU-I. The Division of Student Affairs provides information on grants, scholarships, and financial aid options specifically tailored to the unique needs of student parents.  This includes assistance with navigating the application process for family-oriented financial aid programs and understanding the various resources available to help alleviate the financial burden associated with pursuing advanced degrees while raising a family. Overall, IU-I is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for graduate students who are parents, recognizing the importance of addressing their specific needs to facilitate a successful academic journey. https://studentaffairs.iupui.edu/advocacy-resources/emergency-support.html

Navigating the Home Stretch: Tips for Surviving the Rest of the School Semester

Posted on by grademis

By Brittnie-lee Duffus, Graduate Student, IU School of Medicine

Can you believe it? We’re on the brink of yet another semester’s end! Congratulations on making it this far. You have pushed through lectures, assignments, and research in the lab while balancing your personal responsibilities.  As the semester marches on, you may find yourself facing the familiar blend of excitement and stress. But fear not, because I’ve compiled a set of tips to help you not only survive but thrive during this critical period.

  1. Define your academic goal for the rest of the semester. It is easy to get lost during this time and feel like time is running out. Perhaps you didn’t accomplish all the goals you set for the first half of the semester. Not to worry! Choose one big thing that you want to finish this semester, and then break it down into smaller goals. Using the SMART method for goal setting can be really helpful here. Keep a printed or virtual copy of your goals in a visible area so you can keep focused. Whenever you are feeling overwhelmed, take a look at it and focus on one item.
  2. Prioritize and organize your set goals. In addition to your academic goals, you may also have personal goals for the semester. This is an amazing way to develop balance in your life and grow into a well-rounded individual. Organize your goals according to the level of importance and urgency by using a tool such as the Eisenhower Matrix. Do this with daily, weekly or monthly goals to keep you oriented.
  3. Seek out an accountability partner. It is easy to set your goals, but it is much easier to work towards them when someone keeps you accountable. This can be peers, a mentor, or even a family member. Tell them about your goals and ask them to check-in with you periodically. If working in a group setting works for you, check out Writing In Community, where graduate students from all disciplines come together and work on their individual projects. Also, check out writing assistance provided by the University Writing Center. Feel free to explore other communities and resources across campus that can provide the accountability you need to achieve your goals!
  4. Finally, take care of you. You have the best chance of succeeding if you take care of yourself. This looks different for everyone. Some people like to watch tv after a long week, while others choose to go out with friends. Some go to the gym or do some sort of physical activity, while others choose to catch up on well needed sleep. Try to make time for whatever your self-care activity is. If you aren’t sure what this looks like, or you need help navigating the harder times, you can ask for help. IUPUI Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)  IUSM Mental Health Services and TimelyCare are examples of services available to you.

As we push through the next few weeks, remember that you’ve made it this far and that means you are capable of making it further. I do hope these tips were helpful and you can incorporate some of them in your daily lives. You are almost there, and I am cheering you on!

Conference 101: How to Maximize Your Conference Attendance as a Graduate or Professional Student

Posted on by grademis

by Isheka Orr, Ph.D. Student, Earth Sciences

Graduate and professional students are often encouraged to attend conferences for academic and professional development. In my field, attending conferences is very important because I get a chance to present my work, get feedback, and learn about different research areas while networking with peers and discovering various opportunities. I have attended different conferences throughout my educational career for different reasons. These reasons include getting feedback from other people in my field, building my mentorship network, looking for fee waivers for graduate school, and understanding the dynamics of a conference.

Attending a conference can often seem daunting but having a strategic plan on how to navigate a conference can turn conferences into invaluable experiences. Therefore, I want to share a few tips and tricks that I have used to attend and successfully attend conferences.

Securing Funding

The cost to attend a conference is often very expensive and a great deterrence from attending; especially if your advisor or program does not have or offer financial assistance. However, there is still hope and there are a variety of options that may still be available to you.

  1. Volunteer at the Conference: Registration is often costly but most conferences will give free registration if you volunteer. I have volunteered at conferences and have received free registration among other perks such as a free meal as a result. I also try to volunteer for sessions that I would have attended as an attendee so that I can still get the most out of the conference. I have attended two conferences in Grad School using this strategy.
  2. Apply for Grants/Scholarships from the Conference: My first line of funding for a conference is to always apply for funding from the conference organization. These applications are often due up to eight months before the conference so ensure that you check the conference website in advance. I have attended one conference in graduate school using this method and two other conferences during my undergraduate studies.
  3. Apply for University Funding: Most universities have some funding for conference travel whether at the department, school or university level. For example, the School of Science Graduate Student Council (SOSGSC) has the SOSGSC Travel Award and the School of Medicine has a Medical Student Travel Grant. University-wide, the Graduate and Professional Student Government (GPSG) has the Graduate and Professional Student Grant (GPEG) and the Graduate School has several other Travel Fellowships.

Navigating the Conference

Now that you have secured funding let us look at how to strategically navigate the conference to maximize its benefits.

  1. Define Your Objective

Clearly state why you are attending the conference. Is it to present your research and get feedback? Or maybe you hope to find a career mentor, research collaborator, job opportunity, or internship? Whatever your goal is for the conference define it to guide your preparation and session selection.

  1. Create a Schedule for the Conference

Create a detailed customized conference schedule that aligns with your conference goals. This schedule should include sessions that you must attend and other sessions that you would like to attend. Also, leave some flexibility in your schedule to decompress. Unwinding varies depending on the person. Personally, I like to schedule time to spend time alone whether it is to go for a meal, take a walk or just to sit and be still. You need to recharge so that you can put your best foot forward.

  1. Strategize for Success

Once you have your schedule down, you need to strategize how to achieve your goals. Ensure that you have an elevator pitch that succinctly summarizes your research or professional interests. Also, have materials such as resumes or CVs printed if you are seeking feedback or searching for opportunities that require these documents. For instance, you are in the final year of your program and your goal for the conference is to find career opportunities and get advice on creating a competitive application for a particular position. Therefore, in your schedule, you may sign up to speak to a mentor in your field, visit a specific exhibitor booth, or explore the career center. When speaking to your conference mentor your strategy may be to get useful feedback on items to add or remove from your CV, resume, or cover letter for a specific position or field. When visiting an exhibitor booth that you are interested in, you can prepare questions ahead of that give insight into available positions, the application and hiring processes.

  1. Take Detailed Notes

Bring a notebook or use an app to write down useful information that you will need for later. This information can include interesting points, contact information or different opportunities.

  1. Reflect and Stay Engaged After the Conference

I really struggle with keeping up and staying engaged after a conference. I often meet such great people but once I get home I am so tired from everything and I often do not follow up. This is something that I have been working to change. After the conference, take some time to reflect on the connections that you have made and all that you learned. Be sure to implement feedback received and follow up with your contacts about potential collaborations or opportunities discussed throughout the conference.

Attending conferences as a graduate or professional student is an invaluable and transformative experience that aids in both academic and career development. You not only get to learn more about research in your field but also build community with peers and mentors. I hope that you found the tips and trips helpful and you are now able to successfully prepare for and attend a conference with confidence. Feel free to share additional insights below that can benefit other GradJags!

Back-to-School: Embracing a fresh school year with confidence

Posted on by grademis

And just like that a new semester at IUPUI is approaching! Hopefully our summer has been relaxing yet productive so with a refreshed mindset we are eager to make the most of this school year. The start of a new semester brings fresh opportunities for learning, connecting with peers, and making progress toward our academic goals.

Being a graduate student can be a rewarding and transformative experience but also comes with its own challenges. Whether you are a new or a returning graduate student here are some tips to help you navigate your graduate studies successfully:

For New Graduate Students:

  1. Orient Yourself

Utilize Campus Resources: Take advantage of the various resources provided such as the library, our career services PREPS , and the counseling center CAPS and the Graduate Mentoring Center. These services can support your academic and personal development.

Meet Your Faculty and Peers: Take the initiative to introduce yourself to faculty members and fellow graduate students. One way to meet other graduate students is through student organizations. Building relationships early on can lead to valuable collaborations and support networks.

Understand the requirements and expectations of your graduate program: Discuss your academic and research goals with your advisor to set a clear path for your studies.

  1. Explore Research Opportunities: If you haven’t already chosen a specific research topic, explore research areas within your field.

Attend Seminars and Conferences: Participate in seminars, conferences, and workshops in your field to expand your knowledge, present your research, and connect with others in your field. These events are excellent opportunities for learning and networking.

  1. Teach or Mentor Others

If given the opportunity, consider teaching or mentoring undergraduate students. Explaining complex concepts to others can deepen your understanding and improve your communication skills. Check out this short video about the Graduate Mentoring Center and don’t miss the Monthly Mentoring Dialogue. This month’s Dialogue is titled “Surviving and Thriving in Graduate School.”

  1. Improve Time Management

Graduate studies demand effective time management. Create a schedule and set realistic goals to balance coursework, research, and personal life.

Balance Coursework and Research: While coursework is essential, your research is the foundation of your graduate studies. Find a balance between fulfilling academic requirements and dedicating time to your research.

  1. Take Care of Yourself

Adjusting to graduate school can be overwhelming, so prioritize self-care. Make sure to get enough rest, eat well, and engage in activities that help you relax and de-stress.

    • Stay Healthy:  School can be intense, so prioritize your physical and mental health. Engage in regular exercise (through NIFS and/or Campus Recreation), maintain a balanced diet, and practice stress-reducing activities.
    • Celebrate Small Wins: Graduate school can be challenging, but don’t forget to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Acknowledging progress will keep you motivated.
    • Find things to do in Indianapolis whether it’s sporting events, music, museums, or restaurants.
  1. Ask Questions and Seek Help: Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek help when needed.

For Returning Graduate Students:

  1. Refresh Your Knowledge: If you took a break between semesters, take some time to refresh your knowledge and review relevant materials to ease back into your studies.
  2. Reconnect and Build New Relationships with Advisors, Professors and Peers: Touch base and update your advisors and professors on any experiences and go over your plan for the upcoming semester and year. As well as re-establish connections with your fellow graduate students and re-engage in any organizations you were a part of or engage in new organizations, like the Graduate Mentoring Center.
  3. Set Realistic Goals: Set realistic goals for yourself based on your current situation. Ease back into your research and coursework to avoid feeling overwhelmed or burnt out.
  4. Strategies to Prevent or Manage Graduate Student Burnout:
    • Set Realistic Goals: Break down your tasks into manageable steps and set achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
    • Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
    • Create a Support System: Seek support from friends, family, or fellow graduate students who can understand and empathize with your experiences.
    • Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Avoid overworking and make time for leisure and hobbies.
    • Talk to Your Advisor: Communicate openly with your advisor about your challenges and concerns. They may be able to offer guidance or adjust expectations if needed.
    • Take Breaks: Schedule regular breaks during your workday to prevent burnout and maintain focus.
    • Engage in Non-Academic Activities: Participate in activities that are unrelated to your studies to provide a mental break and a sense of balance.
    • Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. A win is a win!
  1. Stay Open to New Opportunities: Returning to graduate studies offers a fresh start. Stay open to new ideas, collaborations, and research directions that you may not have considered before.
  2. Continue to Attend Seminars and Conferences.
  3. Learn from Feedback: Embrace feedback from professors, advisors, and peers. Constructive criticism helps you improve your work and develop as a researcher.

Regardless of whether you are a new or returning graduate student, remember that graduate school is a marathon, not a sprint. Let’s continue supporting one another while engaging in meaningful learning. Here’s to a successful and fulfilling semester ahead!

Make The Most of Summer: Student Edition

Posted on by grademis

by Brittnie-lee Duffus, PhD Student, Department of Pharmacology

After months of wearing heavy coats and rushing in from the harsh, freezing wind, we’re finally in the clear. Summer is here! It’s the season of embracing the sun-drenched days and exploring your local area or a new place. For many of us graduate and professional students, we struggle with allocating time to embark on summer adventures due to the demands of research. While some of us can take a few weeks off, others are preparing for qualifying exams, collecting the last piece of data for that grant, or finishing the thesis that will secure a ticket out of graduate school. On top of that, who can afford to enjoy summer on a student stipend anyways?

Guess what? You can! I struggled with making time for the big trips my friends were planning in the summer, and I couldn’t afford it after just moving to Indy. I didn’t let that stop me from having fun! My roommate and I set out on a journey to do as much while spending as little.  You don’t have to put your summer on hold because you can’t find the time or money to make a trip out of town! The vibrant capital of Indiana offers a multitude of exciting experiences for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking entertainment, Indianapolis has something for everyone. That’s not all! Many of these activities are FREE or very low cost.

Let’s start with looking at FREE activities in and around the city:

  1. Latin Nights at The Jazz Kitchen

While this one requires a bit of driving outside of downtown, it is well worth it! Gather some friends and book an Uber if you do not have a car, and head to The Jazz Kitchen for a night of fun. Entry is free before 8pm, and a FREE 30minute dance lesson begins at 8:30pm. After the lesson, you can dance away the night! Food and drinks are also available for purchase but if you just want the dancing, grab some food at home before heading out! I’ve been many times throughout the last year with friends and it is definitely on my radar for the summer.

  1. First Fridays at the Indianapolis Arts District

On the first Friday of every month, the Indianapolis Arts District comes alive with galleries, studios, and boutiques opening their doors for extended hours. You can enjoy street performers, live music, and culinary delights offered by the district with the kids, some friends, or solo! Check out the Murphy Arts Center and the Circle City Industrial Complex.

  1. Daily Light Show at Monument Circle and Soldiers & Sailors Monument

Located in the heart of downtown, this iconic landmark pays tribute to Indiana’s fallen heroes. Climb the 331 steps to the observation deck for some exercise and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city skyline. Many concerts, festival and events are also hosted here throughout the summer that you can enjoy. Finally, you can enjoy the nightly light show which bathes The Circle in red, white and blue light, accompanied by music from the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.

  1. Indianapolis Cultural Trail

Embark on a journey of art, history, and urban exploration along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail. This 8-mile pedestrian and bicycle pathway winds through the heart of the city, connecting neighborhoods, parks, and cultural districts. Grab your bike (or rent one) and enjoy riding through the vibrant art exhibits, beautiful gardens and unique architecture around town. The exercise you’ll get is just a bonus!

  1. Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields

Grab your phone or professional camera and take advantage of the free admission to the outdoors and gardens at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields. This is the perfect destination to snap pictures and videos that perfectly captures summer! From intricate sculptures to well-designed gardens, you’re sure to find content for your social media or your personal photo collection. Normally, entry to some exhibits is not free. However, as an IUPUI student you get a FREE annual pass! All that’s left for you to do is pack a picnic and make a day out of it!

  1. Concerts on the Canal

The Indiana Historical Society host free concerts along the canal on Thursdays throughout the summer. You can pay to reserve tables or join the group of enthusiasts who bring a blanket, some food, and set up on the lawn for FREE (I do this!). The concerts begin at 6pm making this a great opportunity to enjoy the evening after a long day of research and writing.

Now let’s talk about things that aren’t free but well worth the low cost:

  1. GetOutPass Indianapolis

If you’re looking for a pass that gives you a little bit of everything, this might be for you! This pass allows you to explore activities all around Indiana and nearby states like Kentucky, including mini-golf, escape rooms, trampoline parks, bowling, and many more! A friend introduced me to it last year and I jumped at the chance to purchase! They have limited sales throughout the year where you can get an even better price! The total cost of the activities is well worth 10x the cost of the pass. Find more information at GetOutPassIndy.

  1. Indianapolis City Market

I have not yet visited this market but my roommate, who is also a graduate student, highly recommends it. Located right in the heart of downtown Indy, you can explore a diverse exhibition of food, art, jewelry, and fresh produce! Make a day out of it and take your food to one of the free parks downtown and have an outdoor lunch.

 Bonus Tip: Student ID Discounts Many places around Indianapolis offer student discounts  when you show your school ID. It never hurts to do a quick google search or ask the places you visit if they offer this service!

These are just a few things you can take advantage of as a student on a budget this summer in Indy. You can also check VisitIndy for updates about free and budget-friendly things to do throughout the year. Comment and let me know if you know of other things to do around Indy that won’t break the bank. Happy Summer!

Let’s Talk About Finances

Posted on by grademis

By: Isheka Orr, PhD Candidate, Earth Sciences 

The demands of graduate school are hard, and part of this challenge is managing my finances. Since April is Financial Literacy Month, I want to tell you how I have learned to stretch every dollar and improve my financial situation. My strategies may not work for everyone, but I guarantee you will find one or two worthwhile. These strategies are based on my financial discipline, so take everything with a grain of salt. If there are strategies that I missed and you want others to know about, type them in the comment box below!

While I agree that stipends or graduate student benefits can be better, I want to focus on the financial areas we can control as graduate students. These include managing our money, setting financial goals, and identifying strategies that can help us achieve these financial goals. I am on a journey to develop a better relationship with money, so I pursue financial literacy for at least 10 minutes daily. I use financial resources such as audiobooks, conversations, YouTube videos, seminars, etc. It has been a life-changing journey, and my relationship with money has changed significantly. Here are a few strategies that I have used to make the most of our finances.

  1. I try to get most items for free or second-hand before buying.

For almost everything that I need, I try to get it for free or at a significantly reduced cost at stores such as IU Classifieds, Goodwill, ReStore, Amazon Warehouse, and Facebook Market. These items include clothes, kitchen utensils/appliances, furniture, books, etc. Not only does this save me money, but it also aligns with my sustainable living goals. For example, I bought an instant pot once that I saw on IU Classifieds for $5 from someone moving and bought a bicycle for $50 at a yard sale. These items will still serve me well for the next few years. I have also utilized services on campus when I have been in need. I have used Paws Pantry for food and Paws Closet for clothing items.  You should check out these awesome on-campus, if you are ever in need.

  1. I make my credit cards work for me.

Getting specific credit cards is one of the best decisions anyone can make when done correctly. The two golden rules I have found to ensure that my credit cards work for me are to:

  1. i) never spend what I do not have to have on my debit card to repay, and
  2. ii) I pay my credit cards in full before the due date. These strategies prevent late interest fees or interest compounding over time. In fact, I have earned money, almost free flights, and an array of other benefits because of the ways that I have maximized the benefits of the right credit cards.

My credit card journey started with the Discover it credit card which I intend to keep for the rest of my life because it has a $0 annual fee and excellent benefits, especially as a student. I have gotten over $1000 in the four years I have had this card through referring friends, cashback, and good grades rewards.

I am an international student, so traveling home is often expensive. I used the United Explorer credit card to travel hack my way home last year. Although this credit card has an annual fee after the first year, I get way more in returns by meeting the minimum spend and getting the sign-on bonus. With the points I received from this credit card, I booked a round-trip ticket to Houston (I paid less than $28 for additional travel insurance and other fees). I took a round trip to Jamaica with a layover in Panama (less than $180 with travel insurance). This card also has other great perks, such as rental car insurance, free checked bags, two annual lounge passes, and other great benefits.

Although I do not have the Bilt Rewards Mastercard I have friends that do, and I have the App that allows me to get points that I can redeem for flights, hotels, Amazon, etc. This is a great credit card for paying rent and does not charge a convenience fee. A bonus is that while you get points by paying rent, you can complete other monthly challenges to rack up points or get incredible deals. Although I only have the App (not the credit card), for April, I was able to get a free trial for the World of Hyatt Loyalty Program, and I secured one night free at a Hyatt hotel.

  1. I use cashback and coupon services (Rakuten, Honey, ID.me, Ibotta, Amazon Shoppers Panel)

I use these services in conjunction with my credit cards to save money. For example, earlier this year, I had to buy a new laptop, so I applied for the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card that I had been eyeing for a while and made the purchase. I got points toward travel and 1% cash back for every dollar spent on this card. On this same laptop purchase, I got a 5% cashback from Rakuten and a 6% discount through ID.me. Additionally, this laptop was already on sale. I saved over $100 on this purchase and was able to rack up about ¼ of the money for the minimum spend on a credit card that I can now use to book a round-trip flight home for fees that will likely be less than $150 plus other great perks. Another great resource to get discounts as a IUPUI student is to pay with your Crimson Card for a variety of services online and around Indy. You can get discounts on Dell laptops, lowered interest rates on a variety of loans, food, and vehicles, among other services. I visited the Eiteljorg Museum for free using my Crimson Card.

  1. Create a Financial Plan.

At the start of graduate school, I lived paycheck to paycheck without savings. I realized that this needed to change and that the change needed to start with me. I soon learned that my situation would only improve if my relationship with money improved and I had a financial plan. Therefore, I learned how to create a budget that worked for me, tried different saving strategies, learned how to cut costs, and defined my financial goals and strategies on how to reach my financial goals. Developing better financial habits was hard, but for the first time, I realized that I had subscriptions that I did not use and made impulsive purchases of things I did not need. I still struggle with wanting to make impulsive purchases, but I remind myself of my financial goals and have implemented strategies that deter me from wanting instant gratification. I also do savings and no spending challenges, which has helped me tremendously to stay on track as I pursue financial freedom. Although I cannot save a lot monthly, I have improved throughout the years.

  1. I only pay for what I need or gives me value.

I have been on a discovery of self-discovery, and I am at the point where I only need to pay for what brings me value. Therefore, I have unsubscribed from services I have redefined as a want rather than a need. Take Netflix, for instance; I was spending $20 monthly for this service, and I only used it about twice per month. This streaming service was a huge waste of my money. Another service I had to get rid of was Amazon Prime because it gave me quick access to things I wanted. I would get packages from Amazon and not remember what I purchased because I bought something during the spur of the moment. A strategy to get value for your money is to call service providers to negotiate rates for services (cellphone provider, credit card interest rates, etc). I use Mint mobile cellular service, and I pay less than $200 per year for what I need. However, I was once thinking of changing my telephone courier, and I called one of the biggest telecommunications companies and told them that I would change if they gave me what I had for the price I was paying. I got an offer for less than $30/per month, although the cost for the cheapest phone plan was over $60. Another great example is when my roommate called our internet provider, and our internet bill was reduced by about $30 at one point but is currently $5 less monthly.

 

I really hope that you found something helpful in this post. Please let me know if there is anything that you plan to implement in your life or are currently doing.

 

Navigating a new field of study……

Posted on by grademis

Neharika Bhadouria, PhD Candidate, Mechanical Engineering

Changing fields of study can be a daunting and difficult process. However, with the right tools and resources, the transition can be smooth. In this article, we will look at some essential tools to have on hand when embarking on a journey to learn a new skill. 

  1. Classroom/ Virtual Learning Platforms

Classroom instruction is useful to start broadening your knowledge on a new subject. In addition, the Internet has given access to education in the present day from any location in the world. Everyone has access to a huge selection of free online courses offered by sites like Coursera, edX, etc. Anybody looking to learn more about a new field or get an in-depth understanding of a particular subject will find these courses to be excellent resources.

  1. Professional Networking Sites

Use professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your new field. By conversing with others already employed there, you can find out more about the skills necessary to succeed in this field. You can connect with recruiters on these websites and find out about job prospects. You can use this to create a detailed plan for succeeding in this new field.

  1. Career Assessments

Taking career exams can help you learn more about your interests and abilities as you change careers. You can use these exams to identify potential job opportunities that match your skills and interests. To make more informed decisions, make use of professional assessment websites such as The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), Strong Interest Inventory etc.

  1. Reading Publications

Reading publications such as journals and industry reports can help you gain a comprehensive understanding of current trends and topics. These publications can keep you up to date on ongoing innovations while also inspiring future research or projects.

  1. Mentors/ Counselors

A mentor or a counselor in your new field can be very beneficial. They can provide guidance and suggestions on how to navigate the field, as well as insights into the skills and experience required to succeed. Also, they can connect you to their contacts, which can aid in the development of a strong network for you. Mentors and counselors can help you develop a strategic plan and hold you accountable for your goals. They will inspire you to investigate a new area by encouraging you to take on challenges, do experiments, and explore.

  1. Conferences and seminars

Attending conferences and seminars in your new field can help you network with professionals while also learning about the most recent trends and developments. Numerous conferences and workshops offer sessions on specific topics, which can be a great place to learn about a topic. Take this as an opportunity to talk to as many people as you can in your field of interest.

  1. Peer Interest Group

Make an effort to work with a group of individuals who share your interests in the same field. It will be beneficial to schedule monthly meet-ups either in person or online. Everyone in the group should try to exchange knowledge and resources to support each other’s development. There should be a productive discussion about the challenges and come up with solutions.

In the end, it is important to remember that the ‘Journey of thousand miles begins with a single step-Lao Tzu ‘. Each step you take advances you in that field. It is okay to not know everything and make mistakes because we all learn throughout our lives and also learn from our mistakes. In addition to all of the tools mentioned, the most important tool is your own confidence and trust in yourself. So, keep your focus, dedication, and openness to new experiences in mind.

Bet On Me in 2023

Posted on by grademis

Kevin Hillman,  Urban Education Studies Doctoral Candidate

Cheesy, yes, I know, but hear me out. Considering our individual and/or shared journey in this academic arena, many of us are no stranger to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome, in my own words, is consistent feelings of doubt plaguing belief in your gifts, talents, and abilities, as compared to others, with a fear of being exposed as a fraud. Short version, you don’t want people to know that you feel as though you don’t know what you’re doing, compared to others doing similar work, research, and so forth. Let me tell you a secret, many of them don’t know what they’re doing either but that isn’t stopping them from pushing forward with their work and/or research.

And if you didn’t remember, we’re in academia. Our entire journey is filled with seeking answers or strategies to our educated assumptions or guesses and figuring it out as we go. Think about your favorite scholars and/or theorists. They didn’t enter this world just knowing and standing 100% firm in their area of expertise. They hypothesized, experimented, failed, and succeeded – with these milestone moments serving as foundation pieces to belief in themselves and research.

Story Time: For the last 13 years I have desired to be a full-time entrepreneur. During that time I have started 3 separate business, the first failed, the second has not taken off at the speed and the direction I had hoped and the third is happening right now. Out of all three endeavors, the most is unique because, you guessed it, imposter syndrome.

As a full-time independent consultant I get paid to use my gifts, talents, and abilities in partnership with organizations to help them plan for and reduce barriers to success in their operational and programmatic areas. Before deciding to pursue this full-time, imposter syndrome had me in a chokehold. I couldn’t help but compare myself to others, and doubt my own areas of expertise, despite having a record of successes and a community of people who believed in and highlighted my abilities and skills. It took me 4-6 months before I could talk myself into leaving my full-time job and pursue entrepreneurship for a third time.

Since making that leap, I understand that falling victim to imposter syndrome would severely impact my quality of life in a negative way. To avoid being swept up in those false feelings, I have been learning different strategies to help me pushback.

Strategy 1: I am learning how to give myself grace. Mistakes happen, some experiences and/or information is a hard learning curve, some concepts I just won’t understand and so forth.

Strategy 2: This has been the hardest to learn because I have spent most of my life very critical of myself, but I am learning how to talk to myself from a more loving and asset-based approach.

Strategy 3: Build or find a supporting community. In academia it can feel very isolating, and those moments are perfect breeding grounds for doubt. Have a supportive community will help remind you who you are, and what you have to offer during those doubtful moments, and on days you can’t do it for yourself.

Bet On Me in 2023 is more of a challenge I want to give to those of you that are struggling with imposter syndrome. For the next 30-60 days I want you to find strategies or use the ones I provided to combat those feelings in a way that best fits you. I recognize this is easier said than done, as it continues to be a daily practice for me. With that being said, I wish you success on your journey to a more authentic, confident, and thriving version of yourself!

Impostor syndrome? No. Just racism.

How to overcome impostor phenomenon

GET OUT(doors) GradJags: Importance of being outdoors & active as a graduate student

Posted on by grademis

By Soumilee Chaudhuri, PhD Student in Medical Neuroscience

When we start graduate school, we are constantly expected to dedicate majority of our time in pursuit of our research/thesis/career. Even though there has been a recent shift in thinking and graduate departments are encouraging students to put mental wellness first and foremost, most times graduate students do not know to use this ‘me-time’. This hesitation and the fact that we typically do not expect academics to fall in the category of athletes/outdoor enthusiasts/dirtbags, many graduate students never really venture into the outdoor world. Additionally, being in the middle of the city (Indianapolis), we also do not have the accessibility to experience the great outdoors as sensationalized by documentaries and social media.

These barriers towards accessibility of the outdoors are further enhanced for international graduate students ( who many not own a vehicle), low-income & first generation graduate students (who may not have the financial means to go outdoors), students who are parents (who have no option for childcare), plus & mid-sized folks, women, women of color and other BIPOC, queer,& disabled graduate students who do not see their representation in outdoor activities. All in all, we can agree that being a graduate student and being at the intersection of these identities multiplies the hesitation one feels about the outdoors; and this hesitation is compounded by all the risks and safety techniques one needs to prepare for when venturing outside.  

So, why am I (a mid-size/international/woman of color/doctoral student) encouraging you to get outside? The reason is multi-faceted but all of them point to the fact that the outdoors inherently increases your ability of self-reliance, endurance, planning, and collaboration; it shakes you off of any gloom and sculpts out a version of yourself that might have been dulled after conducting 50+ bench experiments per week/ 20 ANOVAs/reading 15 papers on DNA Sequencing. More so, many amateur and skilled outdoor enthusiasts are actively working towards researching the benefits of outdoor-driven physical activity (hiking, backpacking, climbing) on graduate productively and the results have been very optimistic; several groups working towards increasing access of graduate students to the outdoors (Recreational hiking at IUPUI, Reconnect Earth in Washington, etc.) are beginning to emerge to help grad students become comfortable outdoors so that they can use those skills for advancement in their own academic disciplines.

Personally, my experiences in the outdoors permeate into my skillset as a doctoral student and informs the way I think and conduct research; I have come from thinking I am fat, nerdy, clumsy, indecisive, naïve to taking charge, making informed decisions and realizing how strong I can be, be it in making a fire or writing an abstract or giving a presentation. So next time you have a free weekend, want to try something new, and feel strong in that process—take a break from your literature review and grab a buddy (or just your dog) to get into the woods. All you need is a destination, a shared vehicle, some sturdy shoes, a map (All Trails/Onyx), and enough water to get started on your outdoor journey here, near Indianapolis. If you want to start near, go to Eagle Creek, Fort Harrison, Holliday Park, Monon Trail, Garfield Park; If you want to go somewhere farther, go to Turkey Run, Shades, Brown County, Mounds State Park. And if you want to go even farther go to the beauty of the south: The Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Appalachians. And don’t forget if you are strong enough to venture into a new area of research as a graduate student, you are capable of venturing into any outdoors just with the right tools and a little preparation).

Grad emissary, Soumilee Chaudhuri, in front of a mountain scene, North Cascades National Park, Summer 2022

And if you need more inspiration or someone to huff and puff with you on your hikes, you can follow me (@soumilee.chaudhuri) down some trails in Southern Indiana or the Wild Wild West.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Six Tips to Prepare for Comprehensive Exams

Posted on by grademis

By: Kayla Allen-Brown, Doctoral Candidate, American Studies

In October, I sat for my comprehensive doctoral exams. Honestly, the whole process was nerve-wracking, and now that I am a Doctoral Candidate, I am grateful the process is over. Though this process is different for everyone, here are six tips that immensely helped me.

  1. Organize readings from coursework

That may sound like a no-brainer, but this is my most important tip. During my coursework, I stayed up to date on my class readings. I also began to develop an annotated bibliography by organizing material by topic. While reading, I took extensive notes. Though I tried several notetaking apps, I always returned to my handy notebooks. Structuring and organizing your reading notes develop a thematic literature review. Creating a literature review helped me to locate theories and analyze differences. This process of reading and writing immensely helped me during my comprehensive exams.

2. Write every day!

Mentors would tell me, “make sure you write every day, Kayla.” At first, I thought it was a little excessive now I know how valuable writing is. Writing kept me focused. If I was not writing for a class, I tried to write about my research interests. While reading, if I came across a vital quote, I copied it down. I also wrote down any key terminology and connections between each reading.

  1. Take a break if you need to.

My self-care routine looked a little different for my comprehensive exams. While writing my exam, I also made time for fun workout classes that provided me an outlet to relieve my stress, increase my movement, and boost my mental health for my exams. Additionally, they were days when I didn’t write because I got burnt out very quickly. Honoring times just for myself was me was extremely important. Be sure to take care of yourself by getting exercise and a good night’s sleep. Work on the exam based on your body rhythm and try to have practices in place to relax. Do what works best for you!

  1. You will not know the answer to every question, which is okay.

As much as I tried to prepare, I did not know every answer, but I knew the direction my committee member wanted me to focus. If you are unsure about a question, don’t panic. Hang in there. As Ph.D. students, there is a lot of pressure to become experts in our research. However, I believe that missing something is bound to happen. During the oral exams, it’s okay to say, “I need to research this further.”

  1. Change up your location

Writing in a different location helped me a lot during this process. I must admit that it wasn’t always convenient to carry bags of my books around. Some days I would write in my apartment, and other days I would write at the library. I scouted out my favorite study rooms and tried to book them accordingly. The study rooms at the library gave me a quiet space with sunlight. Also, I could bring my whiteboard markers to write out information if I needed to.

  1. Affirmations are powerful

I wrote down affirmations on sticky notes and placed several around my apartment and in my notebooks. Though this may seem different, it helped me to combat my anxiety and fight against imposter syndrome. Also, I shared that I was sitting for comps with several friends and family members who checked in and sent their good thoughts. I am very grateful for my village showing up and caring for me during the most stressful times of my life.  Remember that you are more prepared than you think. No matter what, breathe and try to relax.

 

Related Resources:

Grad Commons Study Space

Graduate Study Carrels

University Writing Center Writers Block Party

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