University of Georgia

This middle stage includes students’ completing coursework requirements and internships/practicums through developing a thesis/dissertation prospectus or capstone project proposal. Students are building networks with more intentionality and attending and/or presenting at conferences. Students engage with program and campus resources and explore opportunities (i.e., taking on leadership roles in student organizations, etc.) to practice the skills they are learning. Crucially, during this stage, poor academic practices, organizational skills, and/or healthy habits start to really catch up with students.

Best Practices

Ways that programs can assist students academically and professionally:

  • Provide consistent and timely communication on policies and procedures
  • Encourage the creation of an Individual Development Plan. (For more information on how to incorporate Individual Development Plans in the student journey, please see information on the Graduate School’s website here.)
  • Offer guidance on how to prioritize academic and professional demands
  • Host a panel with alumni focusing on coursework taken, internships completed, and additional skills honed that led to employment
  • Hold research events where students can practice their poster and presentation skills
  • Discuss how conferences are structured and ways to maximize productivity while attending
  • Promote the UGA Mentor Program

Ways that programs can assist students in their well-being efforts include:

  • Hold walking meetings (connect with nature while being productive)
  • Offer class outside on a nice day
  • Encourage “micro-breaks” (short, intentional breaks) throughout the day
  • Promote taking a walk around your building, inside or outside
  • Encourage students to check out a nearby Well-Being hub or create your own wellness space
Graduate School Resources
  • The GradUP platform complements program offerings and provides academic and professional resources and programming on Career Navigation, Communication, Leadership & Collaboration, Research & Scholarship, Teaching & Mentoring, and Well-Being
  • The Graduate School offers an overview of Theses & Dissertations to explain the policies and procedures guiding this process
  • Student Success & Well-Being Grants serve to enhance program retention efforts by funding innovative and impactful initiatives
  • Faculty can earn The Graduate Mentoring Certificate and stay current on the latest scholarship on mentoring
 
 
 

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