GPS is purposefully organized with doctoral students in mind. The agenda includes a keynote speaker, diving deeper with the dissertation protocol, breakout sessions, and a panel of experts. The tabling fair will include a robust group of campus departments eager to help you navigate the next phase of your doctoral journey.
- 8:30 am - 9:00 am- Check in
- 9:00 am - 9:15 am- Opening remarks
- Dr. Nicole Stedman, Associate Provost and Dean of the UF Graduate School
- 9:15 am - 10:15 am- Keynote address: “Starting your (Ad)Venture”
- Dr. Jan Allen will discuss research and dissertation writing strategies to increase productivity as a writer. Also finding ways to manage writer’s block, time management, and overcoming challenges to become a more productive writer.
- 10:15 am - 10:30 am- Break
- 10:30 am - 12:00 pm- Session Breakouts:
- Track 1: First-time attendees will participate in a rotation of departments covering topics such as: conducting research and utilizing the libraries; managing procrastination and building healthy routines for success; preparing for the job search and career development; and more.
- Track 2: Previous GPS attendees and those who reached candidacy in 2023 (Fall, Spring, or Summer) will have the opportunity to work more closely with Dr. Allen, focusing on maintaining productivity, managing new obstacles, and timely degree completion.
- 12:00 pm - 12:15 pm- Break
- 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm- “Focus Forward: Planning, Balancing, and Thriving to the Finish Line”
- This session is all about moving from “barely managing” to thriving—helping you to not just finish but finish strong, with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Whether you’re juggling dissertation deadlines, career preparation, or just trying to keep it all together, you’ll leave with practical solutions you can implement immediately.
- 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm- Lunch (provided)
- 1:20 pm - 1:40 pm- Leadership Development Opportunities
- 1:40 pm - 2:00 pm- Using the Dissertation template: hear from Editors and Helpdesk about formatting and tips and tricks for well-polished dissertations.
- 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm-Panel of experts: tips for effective dissertation writing and defense
- 3:00 pm - 3:15 pm- Closing remarks and prizes
- 3:15 pm - 3:45 pm- Networking and resource fair with UF Dissertation team, GatorWell Health Promotion Services, the UF Libraries and ARCs team, the Career Connections Center, student organizations, Efficient Life, and more.