Graduate school can be challenging, but with a little planning and strategy, you can set yourself up for success. Here are nine ways to start your semester on the right foot.
1. Chart Your Course
Dream big! Think about where you want to be in ten years and plot the points that will get you there. Consider the skills you want to build and experiences you want to have. Like a sailor navigating the ocean, understanding the stages along the way will help you reach your destination.
2. Know Your Degree Requirements
Familiarize yourself with the Graduate studies website here and your department's graduate student handbook. These resources contain essential information about academic progress, funding, registration, and more.
3. Meet the Key Players
Touch base with your advisor, lab or TA supervisor, and graduate chair. Attend departmental meetings to learn about important deadlines, events, and professional development opportunities.
4. Prepare Meeting Agenda
Before meetings with your advisor or supervisor, plan what you want to discuss and share an agenda. Follow up with an email summarizing what you've discussed and agreed upon.
5. Build Your Network
Expand your connections beyond your department. Attend guest lectures, networking events, introduce yourself to speakers, and participate in conferences. A strong network can provide valuable opportunities now and in the future.
6. Treat Grad School Like a Job
Set boundaries and schedule breaks. Studies show that reasonable breaks make you more productive in the long run. Create the right balance in your schedules.
7. Get Organized
Develop systems to track your reading lists, notes, and tasks. Good organization will save you time and stress later.
8. Start Building Skills
Take advantage of opportunities to present your work, write, and manage projects. These experiences build transferable skills applicable to any future career.
9. Manage Your Time
Balance your various roles and responsibilities. Keep track of how you spend your time and stay on task. Remember to make time for yourself and your personal life.
Pro Tip: Make sure to balance your studies with involvement in campus life. While academic success should be your main focus, participating in extracurricular activities is also important. Explore Registered Student Organizations (RSOs), and take part in social gatherings, professional networking events, and personal growth workshops. These experiences will help you fully engage with the dynamic UNL community.
More details at: https://graduate.unl.edu/