Maximizing Your Professional Network | Ep. 167

In the final part of the mini-series FLOWERS, learn about the remarkable journey of Brandon Taylor, an American writer whose path took unexpected turns from biochemistry to the bestseller lists. From his days at Auburn University Montgomery to his pursuit of graduate degrees at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Iowa, Taylor's story is one of resilience and reinvention.Tune in and explore the intersections of science and art in Taylor's work, and delve into the themes that resonate deeply in his writing. From academia to the literary scene, Brandon Taylor's journey is a testament to the power of following one's passion. Don't miss out on this captivating episode.

In the next episode of the FLOWERS mini-series, we give flowers to Isabel Wilkerson. Inspired by Ava DuVernay's latest film, "Origin," I discovered the compelling narrative of Wilkerson's life and work. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize and the National Humanities Medal, Wilkerson's storytelling prowess illuminates the human condition and our nation's history like no other. From past to present, Wilkerson's voice resonates, offering wisdom for our current era. Listen in and be inspired by the brilliance of Isabel Wilkerson.

In the second installation of the mini-series FLOWERS. In this episode, we give flowers to designer, artist, and educator Curry J. Hackett. He is a Virginia native gaining global recognition for his work which braids Black aesthetics, kinship with nature, and pop culture into surreal scenes of Black Joy.Listen and learn more about an up-and-coming powerhouse in art and architecture.

This episode is part one of a mini-series, FLOWERS: An Ode to Modern Black ScholarsExplore the captivating work of Professor Tressie McMillan Cottom, a renowned cultural critic, sociologist, and award-winning writer. Her insights challenge conventional wisdom and reshape our understanding of society. Allanté uncovers the breadth and depth of her intellectual contributions; from dissecting societal norms to redefining the discourse on contemporary issues her work transcends boundaries and offers new perspectives on the world around us. Cottom's unique voice in today's cultural landscape offers thought-provoking ideas and powerful narratives that challenge the status quo through academic research that inspires change, her impact resonates far and wide.Don't miss out on this opportunity to be inspired by the story of one of today's most influential voices. Listen now!

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT BELOW!This is a very special episode of the podcast, where Allanté is celebrating her 34th birthday and the first anniversary of defending her dissertation (aka her Doctorversary). She shares with you 34 reflections on the past year, both personal and professional, that have helped shape her into Dr. Whitmore.Reflecting on the past year has been a great opportunity to recognize the progress she's made, the challenges overcome, and the lessons learned. She shares the hard-won lessons learned on a personal level, like the learned importance of self-care, and the value of taking time for self. Further, she's recognized the need to be surrounded by positive, supportive people who believe in you and your abilities. Throughout this episode, hear the highs and lows of the past year and how they've impacted her both professionally and personally. From the excitement of defending the dissertation to the challenges of adjusting to post-grad life, this episode is a candid and honest look at her experiences over the past year.Listen in and reflect with Allanté on the past year and celebrating her 34th birthday and the one-year anniversary of defending her dissertation.***MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT***The Grad School Success Summit is back! You can learn more and sign up at gradschoolsummit.com

In this week's episode, Maximizing Your Professional Network in Grad School, I share my insights and some tips on how to build meaningful professional relationships during your graduate school journey. You'll hear:Why professional relationships are importantWhere to go to meet your professional people (in person and virtually)How to follow up with them after the initial connection.Resources Mentioned During The Episode: **Nurture Your Network** - Download Here Community Series on Instagram: Part 1| How I made my very first friend in Grad SchoolPart 2 | Building Your Grad School Community Online!Part 3 | Making Friends in Your Department/CohortPart 4 | Making Friends in Your City

In this episode, hear from Angela Crumdy, Ph.D., a Provost Postdoctoral Fellow who is currently researching the social lives of Black women primary school teachers in Latin America and the United States. Angela is also the creator behind the Instagram page, Grad Girl Wellness. We discuss wellness barriers you may encounter on your grad school journey as well as the coping mechanisms and strategies you can employ to maintain your well-being. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in education, the intersection of race and gender, and taking care of your mental, physical and emotional self in grad school. So, sit back, relax, and join us as we explore the world of wellness with Dr. Crumdy.Follow Dr. Angela Crumdy on Instagram, @gradgirlwellness, for more tips and insights on wellness.Want to take control of your wellness as a graduate student? Download Check Yourself, a self-reflection journal page, and start tracking your progress today! Visit blkingradschool.gumroad.com/l/checkyourself and download the journal page.

Happy 2023! On this new episode listen to Allante's reflections on life in 2022 and life after grad school. Big thanks to Tyler The Creator for this week's musical inspiration--hear what song (is it really a song?) is selected for the Lesson From The Trap. If you are also in a reflective mood for the New Year, follow along and fill out these three questions on this journal page created for grad students. Link: https://blkingradschool.gumroad.com/l/checkyourself

Happy [Early] Valentine's Day! Blk + in Grad School is returning with the grad school love story. Meet Dr. & Dr. Grimes two love-birds who met in graduate school. In this week's episode, they share their paths to the doctorate degree and then to each other. It's a love story like no other as they managed to both finish and defend their dissertations, wed, and secure jobs (at the same university!) all in one year's span. A testament to love on this day that is all about L-O-V-E!Check out the updated Blk + in Grad School website at blkingradschool.comFollow on Instagram and Twitter @blkingradschool

Meet Latoya! She’s a mom, manuscript editor, and recently finished her MA in Humanities. In 2020, she retired from the military then started her graduate program. Juggling her own classes, homeschooling, and her business Latoya realized she needed more support to get to and through her grad school journey. She joined The Scholar Circle (TSC) in 2021 and in this episode she shares her experience inside our coworking community. Listen in to learn about her work and how the TSC community helped her get through the good and the bad days of completing her degree!Want to give The Scholar Circle a try? Sign up for a free coworking session here.