Expectations for all Our research group is a supportive, respectful environment for anyone who is interested in gaining research experience, and we are dedicated to all aspects of diversity among scientists. First generation college students and members of identities/ groups that are not well represented in science are encouraged to feel welcome! We are all here to learn and support one another while doing so. (We are going to make mistakes as we learn, but we'll keep working!)
Undergraduate Researchers Interested students can get involved in research. As you get involved, please maintain communication, be mindful of prioritizing your academic success, and maintain professionalism.
Graduate Student Expectations Graduate school is a time to gain expertise in a specific area of knowledge and to further your professional development. The goal of grad school as I see it is to improve your ability to serve as an advanced (MS) or independent (PhD) professional in natural resources or related disciplines.
Graduate school is a little different from your experience as an undergraduate. In grad school, you are moving toward greater independence. In addition to classes, you have long term goals of finishing your thesis and degree. Along the way, the milestones are spread out, but it is important not to lose track of them. As an advisor, I am here to support your progress, but keeping track of your daily work is up to you. Some people might prefer to set daily or weekly goals for themselves. We can talk about these and I will help you set bigger goals so we are on the same page about your progress. Some people prefer to work regular business hours and I encourage that, but if a different schedule is more productive for you, go for it. I also encourage you to spend time working on campus and getting to know your fellow students and the faculty. We are the Wolfpack after all, and science is a team effort.
I view my responsibility to support your research and professional development. All the students and staff hired by the lab are ultimately under my supervision. You might have opportunities to help mentor undergraduate student and new graduate students, which is great! You might also use Lab, Department, or College resources including vehicles. Please remember to treat people with respect and equipment with care. Lab members are your colleagues and you should maintain professional relationships with them. Questions about students and staff, equipment and resources are certainly things you should discuss with me.
Make sure you understand your degree and concentration requirements: https://cnr.ncsu.edu/fer/grad/. You will want to map out your plan for courses ahead of time, as many are only offered specific times and in some cases, specific years.
Be an advocate for yourself. When you don’t know the answer to something, take some time to search for it online or by ask someone such as a fellow student. I am happy to help clarify things.
Be intellectually curious and excited about science!
What are some additional resources about how to be a grad student?