It’s OK not to find your voice during your PhD

Like many people, I’ve been doing lots of reflection during the pandemic. One of the things I’ve thought a lot about is how I’ve become much more confident and assertive since finishing my PhD. Over the last couple of years, I’ve built a bit of a professional reputation for myself as someone who isn’t afraidContinue reading “It’s OK not to find your voice during your PhD”

Job applications: Some practical tips for PhDs

I’ve been MIA from this blog for a little while. The reason is that I’ve just come out of a (successful) job hunt myself! More details to come later, but as much as I’m sad to leave my current team, I’m also really excited for my new role. I’m also experiencing the other side ofContinue reading “Job applications: Some practical tips for PhDs”

Ugly emotions you may encounter when leaving academia

I want to address what far too many articles about transitioning into an “alternative” career don’t talk about. Most articles talk about the “hard”, concrete stuff, like career options or networking. However, the truth is that the hardest part about leaving academia is the emotions that come with it. There are a few people I’veContinue reading “Ugly emotions you may encounter when leaving academia”

An introduction to mentorship

In a world where individuals are becoming increasingly responsible for their own career development, finding a mentor, or several, is extremely valuable. Who is a mentor? A mentor is a trusted source of knowledge who supports your professional growth and development. They’re usually somewhat established in the industry that you work in, or are tryingContinue reading “An introduction to mentorship”

Networking: A PhD’s Guide

If you’re a grad student looking into alternative careers, you’ve probably come across the term “networking”. You may have heard that it’s important for your career. You may have been told you should get a LinkedIn account. You may have seen posters for networking events, and you may even have gone to one or two.Continue reading “Networking: A PhD’s Guide”

Leaving academia: Where do I start?

When I started my PhD program, I knew exactly what I wanted to do with my life. I was going to get my PhD, do a postdoc at a prestigious university somewhere, and then become a professor. I’d done undergraduate research and loved it, and I was inspired by my mentors who had taken thatContinue reading “Leaving academia: Where do I start?”