This is a series of letters to a new graduate student, where we share learnings from our experience, and things we wish someone shared with us.
Dear 1st year Graduate Student,
Beginnings
It’s your first week in graduate school. It feels like a dream. Who knew that there were so MANY other people interested in getting a PhD. You have attended numerous orientations. You hear someone say they are getting a PhD in music studies. Your science background cannot comprehend what one could do with a PhD in music, but oh well, the world does need musicians.
You are excited to be here. Thankful even. You think back to all those years where you dreamt of becoming a doctor. Not the medical kind… you hate blood, that would be a terrible combination. The scholarly kind of doctor! The kind that probably shouldn’t stand up in a plane when the flight attendant asks is their a doctor on the plane during an emergency.
All those years of doing research as an undergrad, not partying with your friends so you could keep up your grades. Being involved in multiple extracurricular activities as an undergrad, those years have finally brought you to where you are. The Graduate School of your dreams.
Hopes and Dreams
You fantasize about what the next 5 years of your life would look like. So much that you bump into the only other black girl/person-of-color in your class, on your walk to the department’s orientation. You’ve seen her around before, this is the perfect opportunity to connect. Your life is about to be changed. So you introduce yourself.
Hi, my name is Tina. You say with a smile. I have seen you around. Same here, she replies. My name is Pamela. It’s nice to meet you. Together, you both walk into the department’s orientation, into a room filled with 95% caucasians, majority of whom are men. You think to yourself, this is going to be an interesting ride.
At orientation you learn about the classes you will have to complete for your program. Not a problem, they are looking at the number 2 person in their undergraduate class. You are told about research and picking an advisor. Picking an advisor here sounds a bit like signing up for the Hunger games but you are game! You even have your top 3 advisors picked out.
This is week 1. Relax. Figure out how you will go to the grocery store and a meal prepping strategy. Find out where your classes will be. And then sit back and buckle up for the wildest ride of your life. We’ll be here periodically, checking in on how things are going and giving you tips and tricks on how to survive graduate school! Our goal is to help you become a successful graduate student.
Signed,
Your friends at Savvy Afro Success.
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