"I love that my research is both scientifically exciting and biomedically relevant to human disease. I have the opportunity to work with basic scientists, as well as clinicians. This provides me with a more holistic research learning experience that has the potential to impact patient lives in the future."
Jasmine Garcia, PhD student, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences
Year 3: Develop Your Scholarly Identity
By your third year, you should be actively driving your research. This is the stage where independence becomes more visible.
Priorities include:
- Refining and owning your research direction
- Setting clear milestones and timelines
- Presenting your work at conferences
- Participating in key milestones such as 3rd Year Re-Orientation, Grad Slam, and the Candidacy Ceremony
This is when you begin to see yourself — and be seen — as a contributing scholar in your field.
Academic
- Third Year Reorientation
- Apply to Fellowships (Internal and External)
- Candidacy Ceremony
- Bi-Annual Dissertation Committee Meeting
Curricular and Co-Curricular Activities
Community and Resources
- Take Care of Your Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Join RCOs
- Submit an Entry for Grad Slam
- Participate in Mentorship Programs (e.g. BAYS, CURE,SEP)
- Volunteer
- Apply to be a Student Adviser for SRTP
- Apply to Conference Travel Award
- Quarterly GEPA Dean’s Office Hours
Career
- Revisit and Revise IDP with CPD