Alumni Profiles

Don't be scared because of the names of the courses that you see. If it's really something you want to do, just go ahead and do it. Just apply. There's a good support system. You will meet a lot of amazing people who can help you succeed in the program.

I would say go for it. Definitely join a lab. And choose your PI well. Your trajectory may not look the same as everybody else depending on what your needs are, but you're capable of achieving what you set your mind to.

Use all the professors as a resource, because they have so much knowledge that can help you out. Even with your resume and what hiring managers look for in a scientist's resume. Just pick their brains whenever you can. Ask questions.

You're going to be just fine. It’s not going to be as bad as you think it will be. They're very much focused on teaching, which is really lovely for the students.

Consider why you want to do the program, your career aspirations. Do you want to do research in academia to advance knowledge, or in industry which pays better but doesn’t really let you explore.

The practical skills you learn from actually doing a research project are instrumental and can translate to any career in the future. Also, start the homework earlier. I remember many late nights in graduate school trying to get that homework done.

Definitely go for it, even if you’re not sure. I wasn't, I didn't know what to expect, and it was probably the best decision I could have made. If the path forward isn't super clear, it's a really good program with really great people who care.

The most important skill is to gain independence, to ask the right questions. Ask yourself, how does this work? And apply it.