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74 PCB007 MAGAZINE I MARCH 2023 of mentoring students to successful comple- tion. Remember, the relationship is a two-way street—be proactive in communicating your goals and needs, but also be willing to listen to their guidance and advice. Next, don't underestimate the importance of networking. Attend conferences, join profes- sional organizations, and get involved in collab- orative research projects. Not only will these opportunities enhance your CV, but they'll also provide a supportive community to lean on during the ups and downs of your PhD program. Remember, it's as much about your net- work as your knowledge. Self-care is another cru- cial aspect of PhD life. Yes, your research is important, but so are you. Make time for hobbies, exercise, and spending time with loved ones. It may seem counterintuitive, but taking breaks and recharging can actually lead to increased pro- ductivity in the long run. Finally, remember that the PhD journey is not a linear path. ere will be setbacks, dead ends, and moments of self-doubt. But if you approach each challenge with determination and a growth mindset, you'll emerge on the other side as a more knowledgeable, resilient, and well-rounded individual. e PhD journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Embrace the ups and downs, surround your- self with a supportive community, prioritize self-care, and, most importantly, never give up on your passion. PCB007 Henry Crandall is the IPC Student Board Member. He is a graduate of University of Utah and currently pursuing a PhD in electrical engineering as the Advancing Research in College Scientists Graduate Fellow. 3. Propose your thesis in a written and oral presentation. 4. Publicly defend your written thesis. A PhD program is designed to provide stu- dents with the advanced knowledge and exper- tise necessary to contribute original research and ideas to their field. In contrast, an under- graduate degree program is designed to pro- vide students with a foundational under- standing of their field of study. On a brighter note, PhD programs are among the few educational paths that don't leave you in the lurch. You may be surprised to learn that universities and research sponsors are will- ing to pay you to further your studies and con- duct experiments. Graduate students oen have all tuition expenses covered, receive sub- sidized insurance, and earn an average stipend of around $30,000 per year. It's the only degree I know where, not only do you avoid piling up debt, but you actually get paid for your work. And if that amount doesn't meet your needs, there are always opportunities to boost your stipend and benefits by pursuing one of the many research scholarships known as fellow- ships. In short, a PhD program can provide financial stability and the rare opportunity to invest in yourself without risking a mountain of student loan debt, all while qualifying you to earn a hey six-figure salary. Advice for a Successful PhD Choosing the right advisor is one key aspect of PhD life. At the doctorate level, the insti- tution's name on your diploma has far less influence than the name of your advisor and the colleagues in their network. is person will be your mentor, cheerleader, and occa- sional taskmaster. Ensure they align with your research interests and have a good track record Self-care is another crucial aspect of PhD life.