Lean in, stay curious, and be open to the opportunities that will come your way. Don't be afraid to reach out to your professors for ideas or support - the faculty affiliated with this program are well connected and eager to continue strengthening their existing networks. Your cohort will also become like family. Don't be afraid to open up and share, ask questions, and provide support for each other. Lastly, embrace all the prompts for reflection. Those are the opportunities to think critically about yourself, your work, and apply meaning to what you've learned. Enjoy the ride!
I would advise a prospective graduate student to do their homework before contacting prospective advisors. Check out their profile on the University website, read their most recent paper, and even reach out to a senior graduate student currently in the lab!
The Biodiversity Institute/Centre for Biodiversity Genomics is the IB departments best-kept secret, in my opinion! There are endless opportunities available if you take initiative.
I would encourage all prospective graduate students to research their program of interest and speak directly to faculty prior to applying as this can ensure that your research goals align with your prospective advisor/program of choice.
A right step taken at a right time completely changes your identity. I won't say that your academic journey will be easy, but I am sure it will be worthy.
Choose a supervisor who makes you excited about your project. There will be times when your project does not go as planned and reminders of that enthusiasm and why you are doing the work are crucial to continuing through the hurtles.
