Graduate Student Professional Development Series
Supported through the generosity of the G. Philip Johnson Endowed Fund
Elevate your graduate journey with Professional Development Workshops designed to provide skills and knowledge that will support you educationally and professionally.
This series is offered by Oakland University’s Graduate School and through the generosity of the G. Phillip Johnson Endowed Fund. We encourage you to RSVP to reserve a spot below; all workshops are available in person or virtually through Zoom.
RSVP: December 6, 2024 RSVP: January 11, 2025
These workshops are part of the Graduate Student Professional Development Series. However, the free sessions are open to the OU community.
Speaker: Dr. Berkley Browne, PhD; Assistant Professor in the Department of Foundational Medical Studies, Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Career Development, Assistant Professor - Dept of Foundational Medical Studies
Date: 12-1 p.m. Thursday, October 17, 2024
Location: Gold Room C, Oakland Center
Description: With the ever-growing pressures, needs, and demands on today’s graduate students and higher ed professionals, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This session will provide you with practical tools and strategies to promote self-care, maintain well-being, and prevent burnout and fatigue. Through interactive exercises, group discussion, and self-reflection, participants will learn how to identify some of the early signs of burnout, develop personalized self-care routines, and foster emotional resilience. By the end of this workshop, participants will gain tools to help protect their energy and sustain their wellness.
Video recording of the event is available on youtube.
Speaker: Dr. Michelle Nelson, Assistant Vice President for Student Success Services, Mott Community College
Date: 12-1 p.m. Thursday, November 14, 2024
Location: Gold Room C, Oakland Center
Description: In this workshop, we will discuss the importance of networking and provide strategies for effectively identifying and approaching professional and discipline-based contacts. Participants will gain insights into the factors that influence and motivate others, empowering them to connect authentically and establish a strong foundation support network for success in graduate school and beyond. Walk away with actionable skills to enhance your networking effectiveness and foster meaningful relationships!
Speaker: Dr. Andrea Bittinger, DNP, CRNA, Admissions & Clinical Coordinator / Adjunct Faculty
Oakland University - Beaumont Graduate Program of Nurse Anesthesia
Description: Stress Management through Emotional Intelligence (EI) for Professional Success will introduce participants to the concept of Emotional Intelligence, exploring its key components and real-world applications. Attendees will gain insights into how EI directly impacts stress management, burnout, and resilience. By developing core EI skills, participants can better navigate the challenges of academia (and beyond), leading to improved well-being and increased professional longevity. The session will also highlight the critical role of EI in higher education, emphasizing its importance in creating supportive and thriving academic environments.
Date: 12-1 p.m. Friday, December 6, 2024
Location: HyFlex—In-person (OC Ballroom C East)
Speaker: Fatema Zohra Tuz (M4L)
Description: This workshop is designed to help professionals develop the skills needed to be impactful and inspiring mentors. Through an engaging mix of discussions and exercises, participants will learn the core elements of successful mentorship: building trust, setting clear and motivating goals, and communicating with empathy and clarity. The session also addresses common mentoring challenges, including setting boundaries and managing difficult conversations, equipping attendees with strategies to navigate these situations effectively. Whether new to mentoring or looking to refine your approach, this workshop provides a foundation of actionable techniques and insights to support, guide, and empower others in their growth.
Date: 12-1 p.m. Saturday, January 11, 2025
Location: Zoom
Speaker: Dr. Doug Templeton
Description: Coming soon!
Date: TBD
Location: HyFlex—In-person location TBD
RSVP: Coming soon!
Speaker: Dr. Julia Smith and Qian (Beth) Zou
Description: Coming soon!
Date: TBD
Location: HyFlex—In-person location TBD
RSVP: Coming soon!
Speaker: Kente Rosser (OU graduate Student and Principal)
Description: Coming soon!
Date: TBD
Location: HyFlex—In-person location TBD
RSVP: Coming soon!