Episodes 41 & 42: Why Grad School - Intro to the Doctorate Degree

Apr 3

Written By HTC

In episode 41, Luz chats with fellow first generation college students about what their experience was like to apply and attend graduate school for a doctorate degree program, how they decided that their particular graduate degree was right for them, and what steps they took to get there.

In this episode you will hear from:

College student and PhD degree applicant Itzel who just recently graduated with a bachelor’s in computer science and was accepted to a PhD program in machine learning. Itzel describes her experience learning about grad school and what her college journey has been like as an older student and parent who started in community college. She helps lay down the foundation for our episode by describing the PhD and application process and provides useful tips for those considering higher education.
Current clinical psychology doctorate degree student Ashley who’s initial rejection from a PhD turned out to be a blessing in disguise and allowed her to complete a master’s degree as a stepping stone to her current PsyD program. She tells us about her experience currently in her program, the importance of research, and provides helpful tips to keep in mind as you enter graduate school.
Doctorate of Education degree graduate Dr. Yolanda Norman who is both a professor and business owner explains how and why she found her way to a doctorate degree, how different the experience of a doctorate is from undergrad, and how she’s able to propel her business further with the skills she picked up through the additional degrees. She emphasizes the importance of connections and communities, advocating for yourself, and utilizing all available resources to help you reach that next level.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

https://www.dallasnews.com/news/education/2020/12/31/ut-dallas-graduates-draw-inspiration-from-their-kids-during-their-own-time-in-remote-learning/
National Science Foundation (NSF) - https://www.nsf.gov/
Research Experience for Undergraduates (REUs) - https://www.nsf.gov/funding/pgm_summ.jsp?pims_id=5517
Green Fellowship - https://honors.utdallas.edu/green-fellowship/application-and-eligibility
NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program - https://www.nsfgrfp.org/
GRE test - https://www.ets.org/gre
FirstGenCollege Consulting - https://www.myfirstgencollege.com/
TRIO Program - https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/trio/index.html

In episode 42, Norma chats with undocumented and first generation college graduate Carolina who shares her journey through getting a PhD with an added layer of complexity and the reasons for starting the resource website My Undocumented Life.

In this episode you will hear from :

Recent PhD graduate Carolina, who describes the challenges of accessing higher education as an undocumented student from college to graduate school. She describes how she decided to pursue a master’s and a PhD, what it means to do research, and the financial obstacles that undocumented students face.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode: