Getting the Right Start for Ph.D.

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