Find Yourself a Permanent Hype Squad: Professional Reflections for Cultivating Positive Graduate School Experiences

Abstract

ABSTRACT The graduate school experience is a relevant part of professional development and can be instrumental in framing future careers. There is, however, a lack of resources and understanding concerning how institutions can best develop a positive culture during graduate school. In this paper, six professionals outline their graduate program experiences and how the faculty members and peers within their program worked to create a culture of shared responsibility that established meaningful relationships and set them up for success in the multiple career paths they chose to pursue. Specifically, the authors address: 1) creating a foundation of shared values, 2) navigating challenges and celebrating success, and 3) team learning and growth. These elements allowed them to establish meaningful and long-lasting connections that have been personally and professionally beneficial. The authors discuss perspectives on how other graduate students can cultivate professional development within their graduate program that will stem beyond their time in the classroom. These relationships formed within graduate programs continue to provide opportunities for professional collaboration, resource sharing, and an unwavering network of social support. It is vital that other graduate programs work toward creating positive experiences within their programs that will allow for future success in the professional field.