Advice...

[studythemind99]

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I'm starting my first year at a good/quality Ph.D. program. I remember at my interview sharing my joint interest in 2 research topics. The adviser for this program was interested in the topic that I enjoyed but didn't get excited about/don't plan on building my career around. Nevertheless because this adviser would be an excellent mentor I accepted the position.

Now, I'm anxious that I made a mistake and will never get to do the research I am passionate about. Research that is not connected to this adviser's research other than by broad terms. My previous advisers have said don't worry its the training your after and you can do whatever you want later.

Has anyone experienced this? How did it turn out? Other faculty in the department do research exactly what I'm interested in, how soon should I become involved with them? I am committed to helping my adviser, but feel like I should also follow what I am passionate about. ANY ADVICE IS APPRECIATED!

 

[cara susanna]

Find out your advisor's policy on working with other faculty first.

 

[wigflip]

There are probably a lot of unspoken rules/norms governing this type of thing in your department--intradepartmental politics can vary a lot by the department. You might also consider talking to grad students in more advanced cohorts about what's expected/what's typical.

 

[futureapppsy2]

What they said. The acceptability of this really varies by program and even individual advisor. It's fairly common in my program, but I know others where it would never fly.

 

[BuckeyeAlum]

This happens a lot in my program. One of my classmates was assigned an advisor that is great but does not do research in his area of interest. He worked it out so that he essentially works with two advisors - his funding comes from the 'assigned' one, so he does RA work and has been able to add measures he likes into the research protocol. He also volunteers time with a prof whose research he is most interested in (goes to lab meetings, meets with her, etc.).

I think it can actually be a plus to work with multiple faculty (if you can work it out). In my program, it's more an issue of funding, so volunteering time w/another faculty member providing you are doing work for your funded spot is key. It can be nice to learn from multiple faculty members and acquire strong professional relationships with more than one mentor.