Following Dr. Nyquist's talk, a group of panelists from Penn State presented some of the innovative initiatives in place at Penn State to enhance the quality of our Ph.D. students as they prepare for the workforce. Synopses of the panel presentations follow. Students apply to the program and rank their top three options. Once enrolled, students have the flexibility to participate in programs across several colleges at Penn State. For example, a student in neuroscience can spend a semester at University Park followed by a semester at Hershey and can perform thesis research at either campus.
Many programs encourage dual mentorship for the Ph.D. committee.
Additionally, students are encouraged to undertake summer internships in commercial, governmental and related settings, and are encouraged to explore non-traditional venues for internships. Finally, all LSC students are required to take coursework in scientific ethics and a colloquium. Students from diverse programs must learn how to interpret findings and perspectives from areas different than their own specialties. These innovative approaches are designed to prepare students for life-long learning and accomplishment. BRIE funds graduate research and education in five departments across four colleges at Penn State.