Graduate School Professional Development Series hosted by CSU's Graduate School

Hi all,

I don't know how many of you read through the recent email that came out regarding the graduate school professional series---I went ahead and registered for both parts, one of which took place this morning. (the second part will take place in April and you can still register for it!) Because there were a few responses on the survey that indicated strong interest in more professional development opportunities, I thought I would provide the link (and encouragement!) to register for the second half, and provide some of the "takeaways" or particularly impactful portions (in my opinion) from this morning.

1. The link to register for April's event is directly below. It's a free opportunity and this morning was definitely worthwhile, so I would highly recommend registering.

Link to register for Part II "Leaping into Your Future": http://tilt.colostate.edu/events/view.cfm?EventID=1197

2. The title of this morning's event was "Striking a Balance in Graduate School" and I can honestly say that each topic was interesting and provided lots of information/insight that I found beneficial. I have shared notes below that I took on one of the sections that detailed 10 tips on how to navigate a professional conference:

Tip 1: Submit an abstract---you'll never be accepted if you don't submit!
Tip 2: Never miss an opportunity to present your work
Tip 3: Set meetings itinerary and logistics ahead of time. (Check your travel registrations, get directions ahead of time etc.)
Tip 4: Find ways to reduce costs. (apply for travel grants, volunteer for the organization, "free food is good food!")
Tip 5: Dress appropriately at all times (know the culture, remember that social events are still professional events)
Tip 6: Attend the technical sessions (attend at least one outside of your area of focus, learn something new! know the dos and don'ts for symposia, if giving a presentation, stay for the entire session, be considerate of other speakers and attendees when choosing entry and exit times)
Tip 7: Go to vendor shows/exhibits (networking opportunities, learning about latest advances, get ideas for new projects, pick up cool free stuff)
Tip 8: Take advantage of professional development opportunities (career fair, workshops on latest fields/techniques)
Tip 9: Get involved with student groups (organizations are interested in the next generation! networking opportunities)
Tip 10: Network, network, network-take advantage of all opportunities!

• Introduction: get business cards, hang out with your advisor, get others to introduce you
• Set a goal to have coffee with someone new (it doesn't matter if you drink coffee), someone you want to work with in the future, and bring breathmints! (for the dreaded coffee breath)
• Use poster sessions to meet new people, support fellow grad students, pay attention to name badges and go out of your way to talk to presenters and other attendees.
• Continue to build network by attending as many conferences meetings as you can, which will build your confidence and your network.

have a great weekend,
Kristi :)