Wrapping Up the Year: Reflections and Celebrations for Graduate Students
Release Date: 12/23/2024
The Transition from Student to Dean with Dr. Chris Douglas
Victors in Grad School
Graduate school is a journey that resonates differently with each individual. For , the Interim Dean of the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education, and a professor of economics at the University of Michigan Flint, this journey began with a passion for mathematics and science, and has culminated in an inspiring academic and professional career. In this week's episode of Victor's in Grad School, shares his experiences, offering valuable insights and strategies for achieving success in graduate school. Discovering His Path Dr. Douglas began his academic journey at Michigan Technological...
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The Power of Mentorship and Identity in Academia with Dr. Sapna Thwaite
Victors in Grad School
The journey through graduate school is multifaceted, filled with challenges, growth, and incredible learning opportunities. In a recent episode of Victor's in Grad School, Dr. Christopher Lewis sat down with , Vice Provost for Academic Affairs at the , to discuss her journey and offer invaluable advice for students. Here’s a deep dive into the insights they shared. The Birth of a Calling: Choosing Graduate School Dr. Thwaite’s passion for psychology and education was sparked during her undergraduate studies at the University of Michigan. Initially drawn to English for her love of reading...
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Law School to PhD: Dr. Kimberly Saks' Academic Journey
Victors in Grad School
Graduate school is often seen as the next big leap in one's educational and professional journey. Whether you're considering law school, a PhD, or another advanced degree, the path ahead can seem both exciting and daunting. In a recent episode of the Victors in Grad School podcast, Dr. , a professor at the , shared her personal experiences and invaluable advice for successfully navigating graduate school. Here's a comprehensive summary of her insights, from making crucial decisions to leveraging opportunities for future success. Deciding to Take the Leap For many students, the...
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Finding Support and Success in Grad School with Michelle Gordon-Releford
Victors in Grad School
Graduate school is a unique journey that demands both resilience and strategic planning. In a recent episode of the Victors in Grad School" podcast, shared her personal experiences and insights on how to navigate the complexities of graduate education successfully. As a double master's degree holder from the University of Michigan Flint, Michelle’s journey offers invaluable lessons for prospective and current graduate students alike. The Decision to Pursue Graduate Education Michelle’s decision to pursue graduate education was influenced by a promise to a sorority sister who emphasized...
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From Janitor to Auditor: Ryan Thomas's Path through Education and Career
Victors in Grad School
In the latest episode of Victors in Grad School, Dr. Christopher Lewis sits down with , an accomplished auditor with the National Guard and dual degree holder from the University of Michigan, Flint. Ryan's journey is a testament to the power of networking, mentorship, and balancing academics with career responsibilities. This blog post delves into the key aspects of their conversation and the valuable lessons Ryan’s experience offers to anyone navigating the complexities of educational and professional advancement. The Power of Networking Ryan emphasizes that networking was pivotal in his...
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From Manufacturing to MBA: Jerome Kirkland's Educational Journey
Victors in Grad School
Graduate school is an ambitious trek that requires not only academic prowess but also exceptional determination and patience. Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking with , a site manager at BASF and a graduate of the University of Michigan Flint, who shared his invaluable experiences and insights about his journey through graduate school. Our conversation highlighted key aspects of his academic and professional journey, which can serve as a beacon for anyone contemplating a similar path. The Decision to Pursue Graduate Education A Call to Higher Education Jerome's story is a testament to the...
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Passion, Persistence, and Dendrimers: Dr. Donald Tomalia’s Lifelong Journey in Chemistry
Victors in Grad School
In the latest episode of Victors in Grad School, we had the privilege of delving into the remarkable journey of , a pioneering figure in the field of chemistry and an inspiring role model for many. Dr. Tomalia, now in his 80s and still actively contributing to the field, shared his insights on the development of new molecular architectures, his career journey, and the unwavering curiosity that has driven his success. Pioneering Dendrimer Research Dr. Donald Tomalia is widely acknowledged for his groundbreaking work on dendrimers - dendritic polymers with branching patterns inspired by natural...
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Wrapping Up the Year: Reflections and Celebrations for Graduate Students
Victors in Grad School
As we approach the holiday season, it's time to reflect on your journey through the past year and look forward to new beginnings. Here's some advice for you during this special time. Reflect on Your Accomplishments It's easy to get caught up in the busyness of graduate school, but the holiday season offers a perfect pause. It is important to celebrate your progress, regardless of how small it may seem. Reflecting on your achievements is not just a pat on the back but a motivational exercise that reinforces your resilience and determination. Recharge for the New Year Graduate school can...
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Finding Passion and Purpose: Christina Blitchok's Insights on Graduate Education
Victors in Grad School
Graduate school is an adventure, a transformative journey that pushes individuals to explore new horizons and discover their true potential. In a recent episode of the Victors in Grad School podcast, sat down with , Director of Alumni Engagement at the University of Michigan Flint, to unpack her unique journey from undergraduate studies to a fulfilling career path, underscoring the value of flexibility and perseverance in education. The Decision to Pursue Graduate Studies From English Major to Education Advocate Christina’s academic journey began with a Bachelor's degree in English Language...
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Navigating Imposter Syndrome: From Self-Doubt to Self-Belief
Victors in Grad School
Navigating Emotional and Psychological Barriers with Juanita Tookes In this week's University of Michigan's Victors in Grad School podcast, host has , Assistant Director of CAPS, discuss the often-ignored but highly prevalent issue of imposter syndrome. Together, they uncover the intricacies of this phenomenon and explore effective strategies for overcoming it. Understanding Imposter Syndrome Imposter syndrome affects a staggering 70% of individuals at some point in their lives, manifesting as a persistent feeling of being a fraud despite clear evidence of one’s achievements. Dr....
info_outlineAs we approach the holiday season, it's time to reflect on your journey through the past year and look forward to new beginnings. Here's some advice for you during this special time.
Reflect on Your Accomplishments
It's easy to get caught up in the busyness of graduate school, but the holiday season offers a perfect pause. It is important to celebrate your progress, regardless of how small it may seem. Reflecting on your achievements is not just a pat on the back but a motivational exercise that reinforces your resilience and determination.
Recharge for the New Year
Graduate school can be both exhilarating and exhausting. The winter break is an excellent opportunity to rest and rejuvenate. We encourage you to take this time seriously, not only for self-care but also to reconnect with loved ones. Whether it's a peaceful retreat or festive gatherings, these moments are essential for mental and emotional well-being.
Setting Goals with Determination
As we bid farewell to one year and welcome another, goal-setting becomes crucial. Remember that being a graduate student is synonymous with rising to challenges. Therefore, as you jot down your aspirations for the new year, let them be guided by the same determination that has brought you this far.
University of Michigan-Flint: Your Partner in Success
For those considering further education, the University of Michigan-Flint offers a variety of master's and doctorate programs designed to meet diverse needs. Whether you seek in-person or online learning, explore the options available at umflint.edu/graduateprograms.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Tank you for being a part of this journey. As the Victors in Grad School podcast takes a brief hiatus, he assures you that they will return in January to continue inspiring and guiding you through your graduate studies.
Warm wishes for a joyful holiday season and a prosperous new year! For any inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out at [email protected]. Your path to success is just beginning.
TRANSCRIPTION
Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:01]:
Welcome to the victors 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]:
Hello, and welcome to the victors in I'm your host, Doctor. Christopher Lewis, director of graduate programs at the University of Michigan Flint. And as always, I'm here to support and inspire you on your journey through graduate school. Today, I just wanted to take a few moments to connect with you as we wrap up the year and head into the holiday season. Whatever you're doing as you're preparing for the end of the year, this is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and recharge. Here at the University of Michigan Flint, our campus will be closing for a well deserved winter break, and we will be taking a short break from the podcast as well. Victor's in Grad School will return in January, refreshed and ready to bring you more inspiring stories and practical tips for succeeding in your graduate studies. During this break, I encourage you to take some time for yourself and for your loved ones.
Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:05]:
Celebrate the progress that you've made this year because every step forward, no matter how small, is worth celebrating. And if you're setting goals for the new year, remember that as you prepare to be a graduate student, you truly are victors rising to meet challenges with determination and resilience. I wanna thank each of you for being a part of this journey with us. Your dedication to learning, growing, and achieving inspires me. And I'm honored to share this space with you. From all of us here at the University of Michigan Flint and the Victors in Grad School podcast, we wish you a joyful holiday season and a very happy new year. We'll talk to you again in 2025. The University of Michigan Flint has a full array of masters and doctorate programs if you are interested in continuing your education.
Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:55]:
Whether you're looking for in person or online learning options, the University of Michigan Flint has programs that will meet your needs. For more information on any of our graduate programs, visit umflint.edu/graduateprograms to find out more. Thanks again for spending time with me as you prepare to be a victor in grad school. I look forward to speaking with you again soon as we embark together on your graduate school journey. If you have any questions or want to reach out, email me at [email protected].