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Posted Aug. 1, 2014

5 People at University That All Postgrads Should Know

In the postgraduate world, it is a simple fact that your success is determined just as much from who you know as it is from what you know. In other words, finding and maintaining the right connections is pivotal in pointing you in the right direction and providing you with timely advice when you need it. In particular, there are five people that you should always make it a point to regularly interact with. So, who are these five people and what help can each provide?

Your Supervisor A supervisor is perhaps the single and most important contact that you need to embrace. Still, remember that there is a difference between knowing your supervisor and occasionally sending him or her an email. If you develop an innate relationship with this individual, they are more likely to understand your discrete needs and any advice that they give will be much more relevant and to the point.

A Career Counselor Another powerful contact is your career counselor. As they are already familiar with your field, they will be able to point you in the right direction once you eventually enter into the workforce. Also, they can provide you with excellent tips in regards to PhD preparation and similar study habits. Such a counselor will offer you many more benefits that simply offering timely advice regarding your career.

The Most Relevant Professor It is likely that you have encountered a particularly beneficial professor in your postgraduate studies. Maintaining contact with such a professor is highly valuable. Not only are they experts in their field, but it is likely that they have important contacts in the outside world. Finally, let's not forget that having a positive endorsement from a respected professor looks stellar on any job application.

Contacts Within Your Intended Field Develop a relationship with someone that is already practicing in the field that you intend to enter. In fact, there is likely no better way to appreciate what you can expect than by obtaining the "hands-on" perspective that only such an individual will provide. This contact can also supply you with an excellent recommendation when you complete your studies and graduate.

A Mentor In this sense, a mentor is actually quite a broad term. This could equate to a professor, a professional in your field or even a counselor. However, remember that a mentor will provide you with the advice, support and knowledge to better tackle the challenges that await upon graduation. In fact, most highly successful professionals will attribute their happiness to a past mentor. Many mentors are also likely to remain lifelong friends; another great benefit when you are finally thrust into the real world.

These five individuals will play powerful roles in helping you to achieve your goals. Obviously, such important figures are even more important to know if you are planning on studying abroad ; you may not find the same support bases outside of your domestic university. Never forget that networking is a powerful tool. By fostering these relationships during your studies, you will vastly increase the chances of encountering success upon graduation.

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