Hosted by the Franklin Institute
This fall, we will be featuring blog posts written by PhD students who participated in Career Services’ Career Exploration Fellowship (CEF), a program that helps doctoral candidates explore their career interests through networking opportunities with advanced degree professionals. Click here to learn more about CEF.
Describe your experience working with your host.
Dr. Jayatri Das was an incredible host. We met frequently through the experience, either one-on-one or in team meetings. She was always eager to update me on her various projects, share websites and resources of interest, and introduce me to people she works with. She gave me insight into her career and career opportunities in the larger field of informal science education. I loved learning about how exhibitions and programs are designed and developed. I even had the opportunity to draft and edit content for an upcoming exhibit. The Franklin Institute was my top choice of host center and it exceeded my expectations!
What did you learn from this opportunity (about yourself, potential career fields, the job search, etc.)?
I learned about how the skills I am developing through my PhD will translate to careers outside of academia. For careers in informal science education and scientific communication, I already have several essential skills, such as writing, research, and project management. My host and others I met during informational interviews showed me that following your passion really does pay off.
How did the CEF experience benefit your future career plans?
I now have a better understanding of what employers outside of academia are looking for in job applicants. I have more confidence in knowing how to present my abilities and experiences during the job search both on paper and in interviews. I still plan on casting a wide net when applying for jobs, but now I have a better idea of how to approach the process and each type of job individually.
What was the most valuable part of your CEF experience?
The most valuable part for me was gaining experience talking to professionals in my field of interest. I enjoyed hearing about their career paths, and I got to practice interviewing skills.
Top reason PhD students should apply to the CEF program?
The people you meet throughout the experience. I met so many people I would have never had the opportunity to meet otherwise. My conversations with my host and during informational interviews gave me perspective on and taught me about my various career options. I also met a lot of the other CEF fellows. It was reassuring to connect with others who are unsure about their career directions and who have similar viewpoints to me about how they want to use their PhDs. The CEF was an excellent opportunity that I would recommend to anyone who is curious about career options outside of academia.
