Grad School Hacks

This workshop series helps graduate students navigate the complexities of research mentoring relationships. Through interactive case studies, guided conversations, and tools like the Individual Development Plan (IDP), students will develop skills to communicate effectively with mentors, set expectations, and advocate for their academic and personal growth.

This series is open to all students in GPB Home Areas, with content especially tailored for those in the early stages of their PhD journey (typically years 1–3).

Offerings

[Orientation] Choosing a Research Advisor

In-Person | 1hr | RSVP included in Orientation Registration

Designed for incoming graduate students, this session introduces tools and frameworks to select a research mentor whose expectations and mentoring style align with students’ needs. Participants will evaluate case studies, reflect using a structured questionnaire, and learn how to assess research rotations.

[Fall] Critical Conversations with Your Mentor

Virtual | 1.5hrs | October 21, 2025 | 4-5:30 PM

RSVP Here

This session empowers students to initiate and sustain open dialogue with their mentors by focusing on aligning expectations and maintaining effective communication around academic and research progress. Participants will practice navigating challenging conversations while balancing honesty, clarity, and professionalism. Tools such as the Individual Development Plan (IDP) will be introduced to help structure these discussions.

[Winter] Growth Beyond the Lab

Virtual | 1.5hrs | February 19, 2026 | 12-1:30 PM

In this session, students will reflect on their long-term goals and develop action plans to support growth beyond the lab. Through guided discussion, they will explore how to communicate these goals with mentors, foster independence, and build mentoring relationships that support holistic development. Sections from the Individual Development Plan (IDP) will be used as a tool to support this reflection and planning.

[Spring] Overcoming Self-Doubt

In-Person | 1.5hrs | April 16, 2026 | 12-1:30 PM

This interactive workshop addresses imposter syndrome and self-doubt in academic settings. Students will learn strategies to build confidence, foster resilience, and have honest conversations with mentors about the challenges they face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to attend?

“Choosing a Research Advisor” is only available to first-year students and is held during orientation every year.

The rest of the series is open to all students in GPB Home Areas, with content especially tailored for those in the early stages of their PhD journey (typically years 1–3).

Who delivers the workshop?

Dr. Diana Azurdia and Letty Treviño

What if I’m beyond my first-year and having mentoring challenges?

Contact Dr. Diana Azurdia (dazurdia@mednet.ucla.edu) and/or Letty Treviño (ltrevino@mednet.ucla.edu) to schedule a one-on-one appointment. We are happy to serve as a sounding board, point you to helpful strategies, and explore all resources to best address your situation.

Questions?

Please email our Program Director, Dr. Diana E. Azurdia at dazurdia@mednet.ucla.edu

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