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Victors in Grad School

By: Office of Graduate Programs - University of Michigan - Flint
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  • Summary

  • Victors in Grad School explores what you can do to find success in your own graduate school journey no matter what you plan to do. Through experts and individual interviews you will be introduced to what it means to find success and tips on achieving success in graduate school.
    2024
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Episodes
  • Balancing Work and Research in Pursuit of a Master’s in Biology With Arianna Elkins

    Balancing Work and Research in Pursuit of a Master’s in Biology With Arianna Elkins
    Apr 29 2024
    Dr. Christopher Lewis, the host of Victor's in Grad School, recently had a compelling conversation with Arianna Elkins, a student in the master's in biology program at the University of Michigan Flint. The discussion delved into her journey from undergraduate to graduate studies, the decision to pursue a joint degree program, the importance of balance and time management as a graduate student, and her aspirations for the future. Arianna shared insights and tips that can benefit students considering graduate school and those already on the path to academic and professional success. Taking Advantage of Joint Degree Programs Arianna's decision to pursue a joint degree program during her undergraduate studies highlights the benefits of seizing educational opportunities. Through the initiative offered by the University of Michigan Flint, Arianna was able to streamline her educational path and make progress towards her master's degree while completing her bachelor's. The availability of such programs, which allow certain undergraduate courses to count toward a master's degree, can be invaluable for students aiming to accelerate their academic journey while reducing the overall time and financial commitment required for advanced studies. Finding Passion and Purpose in Academic Pursuits Arianna's journey from undergraduate research assistant to pursuing a master's thesis in biology exemplifies the transformative power of educational experiences. Her involvement in an aquatic science project not only fueled her passion but also set her on a trajectory towards her desired career in natural resource management. This demonstrates the significance of gaining practical experience and finding alignment between academic pursuits and personal aspirations. Students aspiring for success in graduate school can benefit from actively seeking out research opportunities and aligning academic endeavors with future career goals. Balancing Responsibilities in Graduate School A key aspect of Arianna's discussion was the importance of balance and time management as a graduate student. Balancing coursework, research obligations, and professional responsibilities requires deliberate planning and self-discipline. Arianna's approach involved setting priorities, establishing boundaries, and creating a schedule that allowed her to seamlessly integrate her roles as a student, researcher, and professional. Her experience underscores the significance of striking a balance to prevent burnout and ensure holistic well-being while pursuing advanced education. Navigating the Path Forward As Arianna approaches the culmination of her master's program, her aspirations encompass a blend of professional engagement and educational progression. Her plans to venture into natural resource management and then potentially return for a PhD, coupled with a desire to mentor future students, reflect a forward-thinking approach to career development. Her trajectory serves as an inspiration for students to envision the broader implications of their graduate education and consider how it aligns with their future career goals and aspirations. Advice for Prospective Graduate Students Arianna's insights culminated in practical advice for individuals considering graduate school. Her emphasis on researching job requirements, identifying potential skill gaps, and leveraging networking opportunities illuminates an essential aspect of preparing for postgraduate endeavors. This advice illuminates the significance of informed decision-making and proactive engagement in shaping one's academic and professional trajectory. In conclusion, Arianna Elkins' journey through the master's in biology program at the University of Michigan Flint showcases the transformative impact of educational opportunities, personal passion, and strategic planning. Her insights and experiences offer valuable guidance for aspiring and current graduate students seeking to navigate the complexities of advanced education with purpose, balance, and a clear vision for the future. As her journey continues, Arianna's story serves as both an inspiration and a practical guide for those navigating the challenges and opportunities of graduate school. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:01]: Welcome to the Victor's in Grad School, where we have conversations with students, alumni, and experts about what it takes to find success in graduate school. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:11]: Welcome back to Victor's in Grad School. I'm your host, Dr. Christopher Lewis, director of graduate programs at the University of Michigan Flint. Really excited to have you back again this week. Every week, I love being able to sit down with you, to talk to you, to work with you as you are looking at graduate school No matter where you are in this journey, and it is a journey. It is a journey that you're on, whether you are still in that undergraduate degree looking at future whether you're in a graduate program and you're ...
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    13 mins
  • The Lifelong Impact of Mentorship in Physical Therapy with Dr. Jennifer Blackwood

    The Lifelong Impact of Mentorship in Physical Therapy with Dr. Jennifer Blackwood
    Apr 22 2024
    Understanding Faculty Impact In this enlightening conversation with Dr. Jennifer Blackwood, Director of the Physical Therapy program at the University of Michigan-Flint, students were urged to focus on the caliber of faculty when choosing a graduate program. Dr. Blackwood stressed that meaningful growth is nurtured through connections with educators who are committed to continuous learning and who wield tangible impact in their fields. The significance of building relationships and interacting with faculty beyond academic settings cannot be understated. The Setbacks as Stepping Stones Setbacks need not be stumbling blocks but rather stepping stones towards personal and professional enhancement. Dr. Blackwood’s own journey, replete with initial rejections and challenges, is a testament to the power of perseverance. The Making of a Mentor Dr. Blackwood’s story is a powerful nod to the value of mentorship. She underlined how effective educators not only disseminate knowledge but also provide guidance and support, preparing students for success beyond the classroom. Flexibility and Holistic Support in Education With an educational landscape that's increasingly dynamic, the University of Michigan Flint shines with its blend of online and in-person offerings, epitomizing the need for flexible and supportive program structures. Beyond the Campus Aesthetics While the beauty of a campus or resources may be alluring, Dr. Blackwood advised that looking to the quality and ethos of educators will be more conducive to one's learning. Educational accomplishments are, after all, more influenced by human interaction than by architectural marvels. In essence, this episode emphasized the transformative power of education, the integral role of mentorship, and the importance of embracing life’s challenges. These ingredients not only enrich the graduate school experience but also shape future leaders capable of making a meaningful impact. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:01]: Welcome to the Victor's in Grad School, where we have conversations with students, alumni, and experts about what it takes to find success in graduate school. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:11]: Welcome back to Victor's in Grad School. I'm your host doctor Christopher Lewis, Director of graduate programs for the University of Michigan Flint. Really excited to have you back again this week. This week, as always, I am here to Support you along this journey that you're on. And I say journey I say this I say journey because it is a journey. It is a journey that you are on as you're preparing for graduate school. You You may be preparing for graduate school. You may be just thinking about graduate school. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:37]: You might be in graduate school, or maybe you're looking at the that light at the end of the tunnel Come in at you as you're getting ready to be done with graduate school as well. But no matter where you're at, there are things that you can do to find in that journey that you're on, and that's what this podcast is all about. This podcast is all about helping you to find success in the journey And helping you to learn from other individuals that have gone before you, that are that are here to help you to be able to Share what they learned along the way and are here to help you to find some things that may help you as well. That's why every week I love bringing you different guests, different people that have gone before you that have gone on this journey. They come from all kinds of different backgrounds, all kinds of different majors, And they have all they all have the one thing in common, which is they went to graduate school before you, and they have figured out how to find success. So I'm really excited to be able to talk with you every week and to be able to bring these different guests to you. And this week, we got another great guest with us, Dr. Jennifer Blackwood is with us. And Dr. Blackwood is the Director of the Physical Therapy program, and a professor at the University of Michigan Flint, and She has been at the University of Michigan Flint for quite a few years. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:56]: She's been here now for for quite a while working within our PT program. And along the way, she has had a number of other experiences and has Been able to bring experiences from a number of different educational backgrounds as well. So she I am really excited to be able to have her here with us today and welcome her to the show. Dr. Blackwood, thank you so much for being here today. Dr. Jennifer Blackwood [00:02:20]: Yeah. Thanks, Chris, for having me. I'm excited to share any part of my journey and to encourage folks along the way. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:26]: Well, I really appreciate you being here, and what I love to do at the beginning is really just to Turn the clock back in time. I know you got your 1st bachelor's back at Bowling Green State University. And along the way, at Bowling Green...
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    33 mins
  • Graduate Success Blueprint: Adaptability, Relationships, and Career Growth

    Graduate Success Blueprint: Adaptability, Relationships, and Career Growth
    Apr 15 2024
    Embarking on the Journey Graduate school acts as a beacon for those seeking to elevate their academic prowess and career trajectory. In our latest 'Dads with Daughters' episode, Victor's in Grad School, Dr. Christopher Lewis sheds light on what it takes to navigate this crucial phase with the poise of a seasoned scholar. From the higher salaries and advancement opportunities that often follow an advanced degree to the intrinsic reward of mastering your chosen field, the pursuit of graduate education is filled with both promise and challenge. Charting the Course Success in grad school goes beyond intellectual capacity; it is about nurturing the characteristics that define graduate-level scholars. Preparedness for academic rigors, a comprehensive understanding of the graduate vs. undergraduate landscape, and adopting a collaborative mindset are pivotal. Graduate education is a different ballgame—larger in scope and depth—demanding a more proactive and engaging effort from its participants. Managing Time, Maximizing Potential Time management is at the heart of a graduate student's success. Critical tools such as Google Task and Google Calendar can serve as lifelines in a sea of deadlines and commitments. But thriving in grad school isn't just about keeping a calendar; it's about resilience and adaptability. With the right environment and the right tools, challenges become mere stepping-stones on your path to academic and professional excellence. Fostering Academic Relationships The relationship with faculty can break or make a graduate experience. Securing a faculty mentor and approaching initial meetings with well-thought-out questions and clear goals can forge connections that not only enhance learning but also open doors to career opportunities. This mentorship extends beyond the classroom, offering insights and support in navigating the often complex terrain of graduate research and career planning. Career and Personal Development Leveraging campus resources like career services is crucial. Small actions, such as checking campus email regularly, joining student organizations, and attending networking events, compound over time, laying the foundation for a robust professional network and a well-rounded personal development arsenal. Financial Strategy Dr. Lewis doesn't skirt around the financial implications of grad school. He stresses the importance of being proactive in seeking out financial support through FAFSA, scholarships, and graduate assistantships. Sound financial planning includes budgeting wisely, establishing good credit, exploring loan options, and considering part-time employment to manage the fiscal responsibility of graduate education. Tapping into University Resources Our episode highlights resources at institutions like the University of Michigan Flint, where aspirants can find a trove of information from the graduate programs page to in-depth podcasts, inquiry forms, and personalized assistance from the Graduate Office. These resources are instrumental in helping prospective students chart their graduate school journey. Conclusion The road to graduate school success is paved with preparation, adaptability, and a robust support network. As Dr. Lewis emphasizes, the journey is not only about achieving academic accolades but also about personal growth and finding joy in the pursuit of knowledge. Engaging with the content of the 'Victor's in Grad School' episode offers a blueprint for incoming graduate students to approach their studies with strategy, resourcefulness, and resilience. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:01]: Welcome to the Victor's in Grad School, where we have conversations with students, alumni, and experts about what it takes to find success in graduate school. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:11]: Good morning. Thank you so much for being here today. My My name is doctor Christopher Lewis. I am the director of graduate programs at the University of Michigan Flint. Really excited to have you here today, and and I really appreciate you being, interested in this topic and interested in being a part of this graduate school journey. Today, we're gonna be talking about graduate school success and what you can do to be able to find success in that journey that you're on. It is definitely a journey and something that every person has to go through that is going to be a little bit unique to each and every one of you. But today, I'm hoping to be able to share some things, some things that you can think about, some things that you can start to prepare for So that when you do make that transition into graduate school, it's not so foreign, but also that you can start things on the right foot and start moving in the right direction right from the moment that you start. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:10]: Feel free today to use the chat to be able to Ask any questions that you might have, and and we'll have some time at the end as well. I did ask that everybody Please go to ...
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    40 mins
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