Other Undergrad searching for advice in an academic career

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Pursuing a PhD in astrophysics, especially with a focus on the west coast's clear night skies, requires strategic early career planning. Engaging in internships and research opportunities is crucial, even if it means creating your own chances, such as volunteering at local observatories. Asking questions during these experiences is essential for learning, as newcomers have little to lose by seeking clarification. It's important to balance inquiry with independent problem-solving to avoid appearing inept. Making a positive impression in internships can help build a valuable network of contacts. Additionally, maintaining strong academic performance is vital, as PhD programs are competitive. A key takeaway is that good grades do not equate to deep understanding; cultivating a genuine interest in the subject matter is fundamental for success in academia.
Luke Coughlin
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I dream of getting a PhD someday and focussing on astrophysics. I would want to work near the west coast so I could take advantage of their clear night sky. I'm only about 45 credits into my undergrad and would appreciate any tips I could implement while moving forward in this career. Also, what was something you wish you knew early on in your studies?
 
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Congrats and good luck pursuing your interests. Here are some points, mostly focused on the early career aspect (which you can start thinking about as an undergrad):

1) Try to get an internship and get involved with research. Sometimes you will have to create opportunities for yourself, like asking to volunteer at your local observatory. Find ways to get involved with the field, even if they are not in an "official" capacity.

2) Whatever you end up doing for internship/research, ask as many questions as possible. You're new to the field so little is expected, therefore you have nothing to lose by asking and soaking in as much as possible. Don't be afraid of being embarrassed. That being said, when given a task or set of instructions, try your best to figure it out first. In other words, there's a fine line between asking useful/good/relevant questions and appearing (or behaving) completely inept.

3) In an internship or working environment, try to do extra and make a good impression. Partly, your goal is to build a network of contacts and people you can learn from and who will speak well of you. Don't burn bridges.

4) I'm not sure of other tips, beyond the basics of studying and keeping on top of your academics. PhD programs and careers are competitive and everyone else will have excellent grades, etc.

Regarding what I wish I knew...maybe that getting good grades and "being smart" are not the equivalent of attaining knowledge. I always did very well in classes, etc., but in grad school I realized that I really needed to UNDERSTAND everything at a deep level. Also, to be successful in academia, you have to be inherently interested in what you are learning. I guess I wish I practiced more purposeful and interest-driven learning as an undergrad.
 
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plasmon_shmasmon said:
Congrats and good luck pursuing your interests. Here are some points, mostly focused on the early career aspect (which you can start thinking about as an undergrad):

1) Try to get an internship and get involved with research. Sometimes you will have to create opportunities for yourself, like asking to volunteer at your local observatory. Find ways to get involved with the field, even if they are not in an "official" capacity.

2) Whatever you end up doing for internship/research, ask as many questions as possible. You're new to the field so little is expected, therefore you have nothing to lose by asking and soaking in as much as possible. Don't be afraid of being embarrassed. That being said, when given a task or set of instructions, try your best to figure it out first. In other words, there's a fine line between asking useful/good/relevant questions and appearing (or behaving) completely inept.

3) In an internship or working environment, try to do extra and make a good impression. Partly, your goal is to build a network of contacts and people you can learn from and who will speak well of you. Don't burn bridges.

4) I'm not sure of other tips, beyond the basics of studying and keeping on top of your academics. PhD programs and careers are competitive and everyone else will have excellent grades, etc.

Regarding what I wish I knew...maybe that getting good grades and "being smart" are not the equivalent of attaining knowledge. I always did very well in classes, etc., but in grad school I realized that I really needed to UNDERSTAND everything at a deep level. Also, to be successful in academia, you have to be inherently interested in what you are learning. I guess I wish I practiced more purposeful and interest-driven learning as an undergrad.
That is some great advice, thanks a lot! I do feel I have an inherent interest in physics so that's reassuring to read. I'll have to look into volunteer work or internships nearby that I can get started on right away.
 
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