Hosted by Genentech
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.
My host was extremely kind, understanding, and encouraging. She took the stress off of me by setting up the informational interviews for me. She is also actively making me aware of opportunities and is currently helping me build my resume. I feel like I have someone who is in my network forever as well as all of the people that I continue to meet from her connections and theirs and so on.
What did you learn from this opportunity (about yourself, potential career fields, the job search, etc.)?
I learned about advertising myself properly and I also learned just why the job market is tough right now. I gained a lot of advice to soothe my worries with the job search, but also how to navigate the complications within the job market.
How did your CEF experience benefit your future career plans?
I have connected with the people that I talked with through LinkedIn. It has also emboldened me to continue the informational interview experience and to continue seeking a career in this industry.
What was the most valuable part of your CEF experience?
The confidence I gained and the insight on how to properly build a resume/advertise myself.
Top reason PhD students should apply to CEF?
It is an individually tailored, structured, and stress-free way to get your feet wet in an industry you’re curious about.
