Training for Careers Promising Practices in Graduate Skills Training

The Challenge Students who don’t know what they need to know – “I know I drove my supervisor crazy with my poor writing and non-existent presentation skills. I learned so much from him but I might have made his life and mine easier if only I’d known about these great workshops.” 2/3 of PhDs will not get academic jobs Graduate Students are apprehensive – “Terrible recession, hiring freezes. Worst fear is timing my graduation so I do not stand a chance at a faculty position.” Employers want demonstrable evidence of skills beyond the degree itself: – Private sector and non-for-profit agencies want demonstrated project management beyond the degree. Blickley et al, “Graduate Student’s Guide to Necessary Skills for Nonacademic Conservation Careers” Conservation Biology (2012

Promising Practices Graduate Dean provides leadership & vision Involve Graduate Students in planning Develop internal and external partnerships (including granting councils) Inclusive programs Recognition Faculty support Advisory Committee On-going evaluation and support

Round-table What are you doing at your University? How have you had success? What are your challenges?