The following tips were submitted by Hannah Rieger, director of student support services. She is pursuing a doctorate in education with an emphasis in learning and organizational change in an online format at Baylor University. Thank you, Hannah!
Tip #1 Make friends in your cohort and classes.
The sooner, the better. If your program is like mine, it is lockstep, meaning there is no variation in the courses you choose and when you take them. This means you get to know other individuals in your cohort well because you are in every class with them, and only them. I recommend that you exchange numbers with the individuals in your cohort, find your core group of friends, and lean on each other, both in the good times, and, especially, in the times you are struggling and want to give up.
Tip #2. If offered, attend synchronous classes and take advantage of synchronous opportunities.
While I know asynchronous assignments can be convenient (after all, you can do them in the middle of the night while everyone is asleep in your house), getting to know people in a synchronous or live setting, albeit a little Zoom box, really can (and does) make a difference.
Tip #3. Find a mentor or someone who has been through what you are going through.
Ask your program to put you in touch with someone who is farther along in your program and is available to answer questions and/or share their experience. When you can see someone slightly ahead of you successfully go through the program, graduation will seem more attainable.
Tip #4. Do not lose yourself in the process.
Earning another degree can become all-consuming if you let it. Time management must be a high priority, especially if you juggle school and a full- or part-time job in addition to family priorities. Carving out time to do things you enjoy such as trying new recipes, spending time with family and friends or even just going for a walk will keep your life healthy and balanced.
Tip #5. Take advantage of the resources and opportunities provided to you.
Chances are you are paying a pretty penny to be part of a graduate program, so take advantage of the opportunities and resources. Use the writing center, attend and (even better!) present at virtual or in-person conferences, ask good questions, read the curated materials, and participate in lectures. Seek opportunities and be grateful.
Tip #6. Celebrate the small – and big – things!
Writing a thesis, taking comps, etc., can feel overwhelming – like climbing Mount Everest when you can’t even jog a mile. Take the time to celebrate the small moments. While appropriate to celebrate, be mindful of other cohort members at different stages of their research or projects. Stay humble and on top of assignments and never forget that your voice matters.
