Blog Series: ALDA Advisors Share Wisdom of Experience – Part Two
by Lori Schroeder | June 16, 2010
During the next four months (June, July, August, and September), the Ask Doctoral Advising blog showcases the wisdom of advisors from ALDA (Advanced Learner Doctoral Advisor) who support learners in the comprehensive exam and dissertation stages of Capella University’s doctoral programs. We’ll hear from individuals who serve these Schools: Public Service Leadership, Education, Harold Abel School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Business and Technology. In September, we’ll hear from ALDA supervisors. Beginning in October and throughout the upcoming year, we’ll feature the advice of Capella University alumni. Stay tuned!
In June, I asked ALDA advisors in the School of Education, “What is your signature piece of advice for anyone in a PhD program? What is your essential message you would like your advisees to know, understand, and do?”
The following is the School of Education team’s wisdom of experience:
Dave Adamson:
“1. When contemplating a Ph.D. program, pinpoint the specific motivators (reasons, beliefs, goals, values, etc.), those ‘sources of fuel’ necessary to carry you through the rigorous doctoral journey to degree completion. Next, consider what the doctorate coursework, Comprehensive Examination, and Dissertation truly entail and how they fit together as an integrative whole. Lastly, ask yourself (1) What do I expect this program to do for me?; and (2) What do I expect this program to do to me?
2. In the Comprehensive Examination stage, it is important to understand why the Exam exists. It is both backward- and forward-looking, functioning as the bridge between your Ph.D. coursework and the Dissertation. It is your chance to demonstrate that your transformational process into a scholar practitioner has commenced. Basically, it is an opportunity to convey that you know what you need to know in your field, that you are ready for Dissertation (similar to a ‘dress rehearsal’).
3. Dissertation is the ‘big show’ and the stakes are high. Through independent and original research, you will demonstrate expertise and mastery of your topic to push the envelope of knowledge a bit further in your field. (Please note: You are not trying to save the world with your dissertation. If you do, please remember me!). Yet, you should feel comfortable with a viable topic when you arrive at this phase. Gaps in the literature on your topic should already be identified. Work closely with your Dissertation Mentor, submit chapter drafts frequently, be highly-disciplined, and manage your time wisely. Talk about your topic with others…a lot…to prepare you for the oral defense. Finally, remember those ‘lasting motivators’ to help pull you across the finish line of graduation.”
Dana Forbes:
“It is essential to develop proficient critical thinking and writing skills. It’s important to employ these skills while making connections between the doctoral coursework competencies and the independent research stage, placing the broader literature within the specific concerns of a discipline. Make these a ubiquitous part of your experience at Capella.”
Jon Gehrz:
“Talk openly and often with your institution (e.g., your professors, advisors, dissertation mentor, school) and recognize the institution has its limitations. We can’t be everything to you. You can talk to us and ask for what you need. If you don’t talk to Capella, it can’t know what your needs are.”
Dr. Lori Schroeder:
“To complete the doctoral degree, you need pit bull determination. Wanting the ‘Dr.’ in front of or the ‘Ph.D.’ after your name is not enough motivation to see you through a demanding academic process. Though no accurate predictor exists, plan about one to three years writing your dissertation. In your coursework, think about how you can apply the learning and content from your papers and projects to your dissertation. Be dissertation conscious and work intentionally toward that effort. Know that Capella University wants you to succeed, but you have to do the work. Be proactive. Do not be deflected from your course.”
Kim S.:
“Be brave, be polite and steel (be determined and resolute) yourself for the doctoral journey. It requires sacrifice, self-discipline and a willingness to be transformed. Become a good and true scholar where the fulfillment of the external academic requirements is a real expression your internal conviction, development of character and commitment to serve. Strive for excellence and this will hopefully shine forth in your writings and contributions to your field, known for depth of understanding and teaching. Keep your eyes on the heights. Let your hearts remain inspired, and humbly take one step at a time!”
Carley Watts:
“Transitioning to the independent research phase often brings many challenges, not the least of which is communication with your Capella support system. Take the initiative to connect and let us know your concerns and needs before they become complicated and frustrating to you. Begin with the end in mind: what outcome do you want and how can you communicate it professionally to your mentor or advisor? Consider a problem-solving, respectful approach that moves you from a debate or argumentative stance to a dialogue. Now that you’ve reached the dissertation phase, positive communication with your Capella partners is essential to dissertation progress and completion.”
Capella Learners: What is the one piece of advice you’ve received that has been of the greatest help to you in your doctoral journey?
3 Responses to "Blog Series: ALDA Advisors Share Wisdom of Experience – Part Two"
Maggie Reneau says:
The best piece of advice I heard was work toward your goal one day at a time, but every single day. Even if you simply write one sentence that day, it is progress towards the finish.
Marion Marino-Meyasj says:
The “perservere, keep steadfast” is good advice. Though with all the advice obtaining a PhD is still (at this time) intimidating. But one step at a time is good advice whenever a challenge is undertaken.
Ruth Starr says:
I am having a really hard time getting a member of my dissertation committee from the School of Education with a specialization in Adult Education. My advisor sent me a list of those faculty members who are in that specialization and are available but when I read the biography of the faculty member there is no reference to adult learning, only elementary and secondary education. Can the advisors be tasked with helping the learner identify the “Best Fit” for the dissertation committee members after the comprehensive exam and before the dissertation course begins? This process would improve the success of the dissertation committee and better serve the learner in achieving personal success in the dissertation course.