Are you passionate about helping students navigate their career paths in biomedical science? Many institutions lack adequate resources for students to learn about their career options beyond the simple industry vs. academia debate. If you are a motivated individual looking to grow your network and make new connections beyond your current community or for a group dedicated to making an impact and supporting the scientific community, Beyond the PhD may be the right group for you.
Beyond the PhD, a volunteer-led group started by students from the University of Connecticut is looking for dedicated volunteers to join our mission for the 2024-2025 year. Since 2018, we have supported students interested in biomedical science careers, whether they pursue graduate education or explore alternative paths. Although we are originally based out of UConn, we are a grassroots group of students and early career professionals.
We hold weekly Zoom meetings, lasting no longer than one hour, to discuss programming, such as career discovery seminars, professional development workshops, and content for our news and career blog. Our group comprises early career professionals eager to give back to their community and graduate students keen to expand their professional networks.
If you are enthusiastic about mentoring and professional development, consider joining us to help with one or both of the following 2024/2025 programs:
1. Mentoring for Applying to Graduate School or Jobs
Objective: Provide personalized guidance and support to college students applying to graduate school.
Key Activities:
–Office Hours: Match students with reviewers based on their field of study and career goals. Schedule regular one-on-one sessions (virtually).
– Application Support/Office Hours: Assist students with writing personal statements, CVs, and application essays. Provide mock interviews and feedback on performance.
– Workshops: Conduct workshops on topics such as selecting graduate programs, funding opportunities, and GRE preparation.
2. Workshops/Skill-Building Sessions & Career Seminars
Objective: Provide students with essential skills for personal and professional development.
Key Activities:
– Collaborate with Professional Coaches: Conduct workshops on various topics, such as personal branding, resume and interviewing skills, and emotional intelligence.
– Career Discovery Seminars: Invite professionals to highlight various career paths and positions.
– Provide content for News and Careers Blog: We like to summarize our events on our News and Career Blog on our website, as well as post resources, event details, personal perspectives, pieces, and more. Check out our blog archive for samples of what we have published in the past.
Get Involved!
Join us in making a difference in the lives of future biomedical science professionals!
If you want to join our team, please email the following two documents to brittany.e.knight28@gmail.com or 2phdandbeyond@gmail.com.
- a short statement of interest (1 paragraph maximum) describing yourself and why you would like to get involved with Beyond the PhD
- Current CV, resume, or biosketch
Best Wishes,
Robert S. Pijewski, PhD
Beyond the PhD Founder/Co-Director
Assistant Professor of Biology and Mathematics, Anna Maria College
Brittany Knight, PhD
Beyond the PhD Co-Director
Director of Operations, USASP
Beyond the PhD 