Success as a graduate student means much more than getting into a program and earning a degree. It also means developing as a scholar, teacher and professional, complete with all the skills needed to be competitive for a variety of careers. In particular, national studies recommend developing core competencies as a project manager, mentor, collaborator, communicator, leader and interdisciplinary thinker.
The Graduate School, in partnership with other Binghamton University resources, has put together a series of workshops and programs to enhance and help you articulate these skills, as well as promote personal well-being. It is recommended that you some time every semester thinking about your progress. Remember, your professional development is ultimately up to you. Return to this page often to make sure you are on track, plan for upcoming events and remind yourself of helpful resources.
- Early Academic Studies
- Middle Academic Studies
- Advanced Academic Studies
- Resources for Professional Development
Early Academic Studies
Scholar
- Attend orientation event(s)
- Become familiar with your program's curriculum and requirements
- Meet with your advisor/program director to discuss your studies
- Get to know your graduate director
- Explore and develop your research interests
- Attend a workshop on intro to graduate life and/or intro to writing and research
Teacher
- Attend new teaching assistant (TA) orientation
- Take a teaching course
- Become a tutor
Professional
- Explore the Fleishman Center for Career and Professional Development
- Attend professional development workshops hosted by the Graduate Community of Scholars (GCOS)
- Get involved in your department's graduate student organization
- Develop your curriculum vitae (CV)
- Learn about professional organizations and publications in your field
- Attend a professional conference
- Complete training in responsible conduct of research
Well-Being
- Join a department organization
- Create a support group among your cohort
- Explore the Binghamton area
- Develop and reflect on your time-management skills
- Explore Campus Recreation programs and events
- Attend a Graduate Student Organization (GSO) event
- Connect with the Binghamton University Counseling Center
- Explore the Multicultural Resource Center
Middle Academic Studies
Scholar
- Carefully consider and decide on an advisor
- Meet with your advisor a couple times a year to discuss your progress and goals
- Develop a research plan for your thesis/dissertation
- Attend a workshop on fellowship and grant writing or publishing and publications
- Submit your work to a professional journal
Teacher
- Consider a Certificate in College/University Teaching or Community College Teaching
- Attend a workshop through the Center for Learning and Teaching
- Mentor undergraduate students
- Attend a workshop on syllabus and teaching
- Begin compiling a teaching portfolio
Professional
- Present a paper at a professional conference
- Plan a research trip
- Apply for travel and research funding
- Gain professional experience by working or volunteering with a local business
- Join the executive committee of your department's graduate student organization, the GSO or another University committee
- Attend a workshop on fellowship and grant writing or publishing and publications
Well-Being
- Create a network of professional mentors
- Explore community-based research, internship and volunteer options through the Center for Civic Engagement
Advanced Academic Studies
Scholar
- Be aware of graduation deadlines
- Prepare your thesis/dissertation according to the guidelines
- Submit your work for publication in professional journals
Teacher
- Develop a statement of teaching philosophy
- Compile and polish your teaching portfolio
- Mentor new graduate students
Professional
- Attend a workshop on academic hiring or the job market for science and engineering
- Explore the Fleishman Center for Career and Professional Development's resources on academic job search, the non-academic job search, curricula vitae (CV), cover letters and interviews.
Well-Being
- Form or join a dissertation/thesis support group
Resources for Professional Development
Campus Resources
Fleishman Center for Career and Professional Development
Center for Civic Engagement
Center for Learning and Teaching
Alumni Career Toolkit
Graduate Student Excellence Awards
Graduate Community of Scholars
Graduate Student Organization
Other Resources
American Association of Community Colleges
National Association of Colleges and Employers
