Beginning a Walden University Ph.D. program is exhilarating and empowering, but the expectations can be daunting. From the start, Walden helps you take control of your doctoral journey. Milestone One of the academic residency program introduces you to faculty, staff and fellow students and gives you the information you need to build the skills and support network to successfully navigate the first year of your Walden Ph.D. program.

The following tips were offered at a recent residency:

Identify Your Focus
You have asked all the right questions and prepared personally and professionally to enter a Walden Ph.D. program. Now, as you begin your doctoral studies, Walden faculty can help you more clearly focus your direction as you begin considering a relevant research topic. Whether you have chosen a course-based program, a Knowledge Area Module (KAM) program, or a program that mixes the two, faculty can help you formalize a detailed strategic plan to ensure that you reach your goal. As your direction becomes clearer, Walden’s Research Center staff can help you develop your research approach.

Develop a Scholarly Identity
To become a true scholar, you must immerse yourself in the field. For some students, that means approaching their Ph.D. program as if it were a part-time job. Begin attending conferences and read broadly in your field. Engage in discussions with others who work in the field. Through Walden’s library services, you can identify the most important journals publishing research in your field and gain access to a host of books and periodicals. Walden’s librarians help you identify, evaluate and obtain the resources you need.

Overcome Obstacles
Be realistic about potential obstacles you may face during your doctoral journey. Are there financial pressures, time management challenges or uncertainties about the research process? By honestly assessing potential issues, you can begin planning how to overcome them. From student support to academic advising, Walden faculty and staff are available to address your questions and allay any concerns.

Participate in the Walden Community
Take advantage of your online community by building networks and sharing different perspectives with fellow students throughout the world. Gain a sense of comfort in knowing that your faculty mentor is always available to answer questions and guide you through the Ph.D. process.

Develop Your Plan
A personal strategic and time management plan can help you stay focused on achieving your goals. Walden faculty are experienced in working with students to discuss the benefits and components of a personal plan, from a personal vision statement to opportunities to achieve your vision.

You Are at the Center
Throughout your Ph.D. program, Walden’s approach remains student-centered. In keeping with this student-centered focus, faculty mentors work especially hard to give you the richest and most rewarding doctoral experience possible.

“When students arrive at Milestone One, the lightbulb comes on and continues to shine brighter over the course of the residency,” says faculty member Dr. Walter McCollum. “By the last day of Milestone One, students have become clearer about their research focus areas. They begin to figure out how the doctoral process works from a holistic perspective.”

Learn more about earning a doctorate by watching Academic Residencies for Doctoral Students.

April Ponder front page

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