You've reached Candidacy, and now what?!

Read More


Graduate Pathways to Success

Congratulations Doctoral Candidates! 

You've reached Candidacy, now what?

The Graduate School's Graduate Pathways to Success (GPS) initiative is designed to help doctoral candidates successfully complete their programs. The event is aimed at helping participants sharpen their writing skills and sustain focus and momentum to complete their degree, while also exploring career opportunities. Attendees will (re)connect with and learn new strategies crucial for maintaining overall well-being while navigating research and periods of intensive writing.

Attendees will hear from a keynote speaker on being a productive writer, gain effective writing strategies, engage in sessions with peers and gain strategies for effective task management, and maintaining momentum throughout the Candidacy phase. By attending GPS, you will have opportunities to engage with campus departments specifically focused on supporting doctoral candidates and making successful transitions into diverse careers.

Campus resource sessions include:

  • Preparing for and engaging with the job search process
  • Navigating relationships and feedback from committee members
  • Strategies for resiliency and sustaining your well-being
  • A Q+A panel comprised of faculty and postdocs who will discuss strategies for navigating these last steps to graduate
  • Resource fair

Registration is open to those who achieve candidacy between Spring 2023- Fall 2024 semesters. Registration will open in mid January 2025 via email announcements.

Registration is by invitation only and open to doctoral students who achieved candidacy!

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.

  • 8:30am-9:00am- Breakfast and check in
  • 9:00am-9:15am- Opening remarks
    • Nicole Stedman, Associate Provost and Dean of the UF Graduate School
  • 9:15am-10:30am- 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.
  • 10:30am-10:40am- break
  • 10:40am-12:15pm- session breakouts (various topics hosted by campus departments)
    • A rotation of sessions: research and using the libraries; managing procrastination and leveraging healthy routines for success; preparing for the job search and your career
  • 12:15pm-12:25pm- break
  • 12:25pm-1:00pm- Focus Forward: Planning, Balancing, and Thriving to the Finish Line"
    • This session, hosted by Efficient Life is all about moving from “barely managing” to thriving—helping you 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. 
  • 1:00pm-1:10pm- break + grab and sit lunch
  • 1:00pm-1:40pm- quick remarks
  • 1:40-2:00pm- Using the Dissertation template: hear from Editors and Helpdesk about formatting and tips and tricks for well-polished dissertations.
  • 2:00-3:00pm-Panel: tips for effective dissertation writing and defense
    • Postdoc fellows and faculty
  • 3:00pm-3:15pm- Closing remarks and prizes
  • 3:15pm-3:45pm- Networking with the UF Dissertation team, GatorWell Health Promotion Services, the UF Libraries and ARCs team, the Career Connections Center, student organizations, and more.

The inaugural GPS event is offered in collaboration with the OGAP, UF's Student Government, and GSC organizations. These student groups specialize in the academic, co-curricular, and professional development of UF's Graduate Students. If you're not already a member, we encourage you to consider joining.

Triumph and Transitions

Triumph and Transitions

Navigating degree completion while pursuing job opportunities can be challenging. Our dedicated team is here to support you in balancing academic goals and career aspirations. Align your ambitions with our resources for a structured approach to every phase of your professional journey, including resume refinement, LinkedIn optimization, interview success, and effective networking.

Tips from an expert!

Tips from an expert!

Dr. Jan Allen has a wealth of experience in academia and a profound understanding of the challenges and successes of scholarly writing. Her dynamic approach, fused with practical strategies and motivational guidance, empowers scholars to navigate the complexities of dissertation writing with confidence and clarity. Join us for an enlightening session as Dr. Allen shares her expertise, paving the way for successful and impactful scholarly endeavors.

Community can be a key to unlocking your writing potential and success!

Community can be a key to unlocking your writing potential and success!

Fostering connections with fellow doctoral candidates creates a supportive community for sharing challenges and insights. Embrace this camaraderie to maintain momentum and balance during your dissertation journey, positively contributing to both productivity and mental wellness.

Once a Gator, always a Gator!

Your time spent at the University of Florida is something to remember. Once an alumnus, take part in opportunities to celebrate your legacy.
Join Students Students Today, Alumni Tomorrow and learn how you can become a tradition keeper and familiarize yourself with the perks, and join the family of over 450,000 living Gator alumni.
Welcome to the Gatorhood!