Getting the Right Start for Ph.D.
Step 1: Define Professionalism
Honesty/Integrity/Ethics
Dedication/Motivation/Determination
Creativity
Consistency
Extensive knowledge
Collegiality
Confidentiality
Leadership skills
Relevance/Networks/Communication
Step 2: Set Goals---'SMART' Goal Setting
Specific
Measurable
Achievable
Realistic
Time-limited
Step 3: Advisors & Mentors
Advice and mentoring throughout an academic career are a critical key to success.
Advisor: formal academic supervisor
– thesis advisor
– postdoctoral supervisor
Mentor: takes a special interest in helping the career development of another person
–Mentor [Homer]: “wise and trusted counselor”
Differences:
• an advisor may or may not also be a mentor (but hopefully is)
• you will have one or two advisors but many mentors
Reference: Robert J. Milner, Ph.D., Graduate School Workshop, May 17, 2006
