The graduate experience in chemistry is focused on content knowledge, laboratory skills, and the development of independent researchers. This model, however, does not address other skills that would help graduate students succeed professionally and make fulfilling career choices. Research conducted with graduate students shows that they are not developing or are not confident in their abilities to be independent researchers, lack knowledge about career opportunities, and have limited knowledge about career requirements and expectations. Further, developing supportive social networks and ways to give back to the community are critical components in the persistence of underrepresented groups. Recommendations for improving these aspects of graduate education through professional development experiences will be discussed.

What's missing from graduate education? Recommendations for graduate student professional development

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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