Tension between scientific advancement and public outreach is not new
Tension between scientific advancement and public outreach is not new
GradConnections bi-Weekly Summer Edition

July 9, 2019

In this issue: Creating an IDP workshop, resumes and cover letters for grad students, and more.
PhD Comic

Tips for Grads: Communication

By Lydia Gandy-Fastovich, PhD student
Tension between scientific advancement and public outreach is not new to researchers. Some researchers argue that real change only comes from scientists’ outreach and active efforts to make their research relevant to the public. Two of the most common audiences for researchers are the academic audience (typically holding extensive knowledge and versed in academic jargon) and the general audience (typically holding a more introductory level or no knowledge of the field). Academic audiences tend to digest and distribute communication through academic papers, research conference presentations, or course papers and projects. General audiences may learn and share information through blog posts, community media, social media, and outreach.

Now, the question remains: What are some things to consider in tailoring your message to your audience?
  • The purpose and impact of your research and message will help determine your audience and help guide your next steps in delivering your message.
  • Knowledge of your audience and their exposure to your research or field is very important in ensuring the impact of your research is achieved. 
  • Use of appropriate language and background knowledge, depending on your audience's understanding of the topic, will determine how much information needs to be shared and what type of vocabulary you should use.
  • Access to relevant media and technology to get your message across and to your intended audience is vital. This includes knowing how and when to reach your audience. 
DiscoverPD: Your guide to professional development
DiscoverPD is an innovative tool for UW–Madison graduate students to advance their academic and professional goals. Review the nine facets of professional development, complete a self-assessment, and get a customized report and recommendations.

Upcoming Professional Development Events

Creating an Individual Development Plan (IDP)
Thursday, Aug. 1 | 12:30 - 2:30 pm
Union South (Check TITU) | Personal Effectiveness  Career Development 
Creating an individual development plan (IDP) encourages you to think about what you need to do next - and over the next few years - so that you achieve your goals. We will discuss how to define achievable goals, identify resources, and develop strategies for implementing and sustaining your plans. Participants will begin to create a personalized plan that takes into account career interests and addresses the development of knowledge and skills for professional growth. This event is co-sponsored by the Graduate School Office of Professional Development and the Delta Program. Lunch will be served with gluten free and vegetarian options.
Writing Resumes and Cover Letters for Graduate Students and Returning Adults
Thursday, July 18 | 3:30 - 5 pm
6176 Helen C. White Hall

For Future Faculty

Preparing for success on the job market and beyond.
Find a full list of events on the For Future Faculty website.
Upcoming Events:
On the Academic Job Market: Writing Statements of Teaching Philosophy
Monday, July 15 | 3 - 4:30 pm
6176 Helen C. White Hall
Writing Center Drop-In Graduate Writing Groups
Wednesdays 1 - 4 pm & Thursdays 10 am - 1 pm | Until Aug. 8
6172 Helen C. White Hall
Paraphrase Like a Pro: How to Successfully "Use Your Own Words"
Tuesday, July 16 | 3:30 - 5 pm
6176 Helen C. White Hall
This week's Software Training for Students (STS) courses:
  • Excel 2
  • Illustrator 2
  • Photoshop 1
For dates and times of each class, and for more software classes, visit the STS website.
This week's Social Science Computing Cooperative (SSCC) courses:
  • R Programming and Concepts
For dates and times of each class, and for more software classes, visit the SSCC website.
MGN First Generation Graduate Student & Faculty Mixer
Wednesday, July 10 | 5 - 8 pm
Union South (Check TITU)
Business, Labor, and Social Justice: Jewish Perspectives, Jewish Traditions
July 14 - 17 | Register by July 14
Grainger Hall
MGN Native and Indigenous Graduate Student & Faculty Mixer
Wednesday, July 17 | 5 - 8 pm

Union South (Check TITU)
Deadlines & Announcements

Register for the Graduate School Degree Dash

Run, walk, or roll your way into a new semester! Join fellow graduate students, faculty, staff, and family members for the 4th Annual Degree Dash on Friday, Aug. 30, 2019, hosted by the UW–Madison Graduate School. Set your goal for 5.81 miles for the Doctoral Derby (8 am start) or for 1.82 miles for the Master's Mile (8:30 am start). Race distances are based on approximate average time to degree. After the race, mingle and enjoy free food and giveaways. Register now for this free event.

Apply for the WARF Ambassador Program

WARF is seeking graduate students and postdoctoral researchers to serve as Ambassadors for the 2019-20 academic year. WARF Ambassadors help enhance the vital connection between research and tech transfer by increasing WARF's visibility on campus. Graduate students in scientific or technical disciplines who have completed most of their coursework and are able to commit up to 10 hours per month to the program are encouraged to apply. For more information visit the WARF website or apply today.

Wellness

Mental Health Resources for Grad Students

YOU@WISC. This portal has tools, information, and resources to help you be well. YOU@WISC covers a variety of mental health topics including stress management, self-care and social support, anger management, suicidal thoughts, and mindfulness. It also includes physical, personal, and academic wellness topics. All UW–Madison students can access this resource.
SilverCloud. Like YOU@WISC, this resource is entirely online. SilverCloud is a self-guided mental health resource that provides treatment options 24 hours a day, no referral from a mental health or medical provider needed. It includes evidence-based learning modules on anxiety, depression, body image, and stress, designed to help students manage day-to-day stresses and improve resilience.
24-hour Crisis Services. UHS provides a 24-hour mental health crisis help line. On-call crisis counselors can help address your most pressing concerns, address your safety, and help you connect with follow-up service needs. It’s available every day, including weekends, holidays, and semester breaks. If you are concerned for your own well-being or the well-being of someone you know, call the UHS crisis line at 608-265-5600. For situations that are immediately life-threatening, call 911.
For more mental health resources, visit the UHS website on mental health.
The Dean of Students Office provides resources to students struggling with a variety of issues, and can be your go-to spot for assistance as a graduate student. To contact the Dean of Students Office's Graduate Student Assistance Specialist Elaine Goetz-Berman directly, email egoetz2@wisc.edu.
Funding Opportunities
Please note: Some graduate students may be ineligible to hold graduate assistantship appointments. Be sure to check with your graduate program coordinator about your eligibility before applying.

Campus Employment

Fellowships & Grants

The Data Incubator is a Cornell-funded data science training organization that runs a free, advanced eight-week fellowship for master’s students, PhDs, and postdocs seeking industry careers as data scientists. A variety of innovative companies partner with The Data Incubator for their hiring and training needs, including LinkedIn, Genentech, Capital One, Pfizer, and many others. The program is free for admitted Fellows. Anyone who has already obtained a master's or PhD or who is within one year of graduating with a master's or PhD is welcome to apply.
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