Graduate Pathways to Success

Congratulations Doctoral Candidates! 

You've reached Candidacy, now what?

The Graduate School is launching Graduate Pathways to Success (GPS), a new initiative designed to help PhD 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 effective writing strategies and have opportunities to engage with campus departments specifically focused on supporting doctoral candidates and making successful transitions into diverse careers.

Breakout session topics 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

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

GPS is a half day event 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
    • Dr. Nicole Stedman, Dean of the Graduate School
  • 9:15am-10:30am: Keynote address
    • Dr. Vernetta Mosley will discuss writing strategies, motivation and burnout prevention, and navigating the feedback process with advisors.
  • 10:30am-10:40am: UF Editorial and Dissertation Helpdesk will review formatting and tips and tricks for well-polished dissertations.
  • 10:40am-10:50am: Break
  • 10:50am-11:20am: Concurrent Sessions
    • Research/data management- UF Libraries
    • Next steps: career planning-Career Connections Center
  • 11:25am-11:55am: Concurrent sessions  
    • Time management and overcoming procrastination- GatorWell Health Promotion Services
    • Honoring your calling-Graduate School
  • 12:00pm-12:50pm: Panel: tips for effective dissertation writing and defense
    • Postdoc fellows and faculty
  • 12:50-1:00pm: Closing remarks
  • 1:00pm-1:30am: Networking with UF Editorial team, GatorWell Health Promotion Services, the UF Libraries and ARCs team, the Career Connections Center, 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. Vernetta Mosley 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. Mosley 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.

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