Graduate Students' Den

The semester is over… or at least almost.In this episode of Graduate Students’ Den, we take a step back to reflect on the highs, the challenges, and everything in between. From unexpected stress to personal wins, we share what this semester actually looked like behind the scenes.We talk about what worked, what didn’t, what we’re leaving behind, and what we’re carrying into the next semester. This is an honest, unfiltered check-in on grad school life — the growth, the pressure, and the lessons that don’t show up on a transcript.If you’re wrapping up your semester and trying to make sense of it all, this one’s for you.

In this episode, we sit down to talk about the age gaps that exist inside graduate programs — the 22-year-olds who feel like impostors among experienced cohort-mates, the 35-year-olds who've been told they're starting too late, and the institutional structures that quietly assume every student arrived straight from undergrad with no mortgage, no kids, and infinite time.We read two Reddit posts from real graduate students navigating exactly this, and react in real time. We talk about imposter syndrome, supervisor dynamics, financial pressures, and what a more age-inclusive grad school might actually look like.Whether you're thinking about applying, currently in a program, or just graduate-school-curious — this one is for you.

In this episode of Graduate Students’ Den, we’re joined by Dr. Debipreeta Rahut, whose journey spans journalism, academia, and continents.From Kolkata, India, to earning her PhD in Media and Communication at Bowling Green State University, and now teaching at the University of Mississippi, Dr. Rahut shares what it really takes to navigate graduate school as an international student while building a meaningful academic career.We explore her experiences balancing teaching and research, building community in a new environment, and navigating the cultural and professional transitions that come with studying abroad.Dr. Rahut also walks us through her research at the intersection of gender, media, and technology, including her work on digital activism during COVID-19 and her critique of how knowledge from the Global South is often treated in academia.This episode is thoughtful, honest, and deeply reflective — touching on identity, resilience, and what it means to find your place in academia across borders.If you’re an international student, aspiring academic, or simply curious about the realities of graduate school beyond the classroom, this conversation is for you.

We’re halfway through the semester, so it’s time for a real check-in.In this episode of Graduate Students’ Den, we take a step back to share what we’re currently navigating in our graduate journeys. Halima walks us through what happens after defending a dissertation proposal and what that transition really feels like. Kelsey talks about preparing for her upcoming TEDxBGSU talk while also navigating PhD applications. And John reflects on the challenges of teaching a new course and what he’s learning along the way.This episode is honest, reflective, and very much in real time — the wins, the uncertainty, and everything in between.If you’re in the middle of a semester and trying to figure things out as you go, this one will feel familiar.

Public speaking is one of the most common fears people have — but is it something you’re born good at, or something anyone can learn?In this episode of Graduate Students’ Den, we’re joined by Dr. Jaclyn Marsh, Assistant Teaching Professor and Basic Course Director in the School of Media and Communication at Bowling Green State University.Dr. Marsh oversees the university’s public speaking program, helping hundreds of students each year develop the skills and confidence to communicate effectively. We talk about what makes a speech memorable, how instructors support students who are terrified of speaking in front of others, and what it takes to coordinate a large team of teaching assistants across multiple sections of the course.We also explore how communication is changing in the digital age and discuss Dr. Marsh’s exciting new project using virtual reality technology to help students practice and improve their public speaking skills in immersive environments.Whether you’re giving class presentations, teaching public speaking, or simply trying to communicate your ideas more clearly, this episode offers insights into how anyone can become a more confident speaker.

In this episode of Graduate Students’ Den, we welcome Sashette McPherson — Financial Analyst at Bowling Green State University, CEO of Power Moves Global, and host of the Power Moves podcast.A proud BGSU alum with a master’s in Financial Economics, Sashette joins us to reflect on her graduate school journey, the lessons she learned along the way, and how she transitioned from student to financial leader and entrepreneur.n this conversation, we explore:What graduate school taught her about leadership and disciplineHow financial identity shapes decision-makingThe mindset shifts students need to build wealth and confidencePractical advice for grad students navigating finances, ambition, and purposeWhether you’re managing a stipend, building a side business, or trying to redefine your relationship with money, this episode offers clarity, motivation, and real strategy.

Welcome back to Graduate Students’ Den with John, Kelsey, and Halima.In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Shannon Orr, faculty member at Bowling Green State University and Director of the Falcon Food Pantry. Dr. Orr leads one of the university’s most important community initiatives, supporting students, faculty, and staff through accessible food and essential resources — including many graduate students who quietly rely on these services.We talk about how the pantry supports the campus community, how graduate students can access resources without stigma, and how community engagement can meaningfully intersect with research and academic life.Dr. Orr also shares her journey from professor to leading the pantry, offering insight into career pivots in academia and what it means to follow purpose over a traditional path. And in a powerful final segment, we discuss something every graduate student experiences but rarely talks about openly: failure and rejection — why they’re normal, necessary, and often transformative.If you’ve ever struggled in grad school, questioned your path, or needed a reminder that community matters, this conversation is for you.

Grad school teaches theory, research, and critical thinking. It does not teach you how to file taxes on a stipend, understand health insurance, negotiate a lease, or survive university bureaucracy.In this episode of Graduate Students’ Den, we unpack the life skills no one prepares you for but every graduate student has to figure out. From confusing paperwork and unexpected expenses to budgeting, self-advocacy, and adulting under pressure, we share the lessons we learned the hard way and the advice we wish we had sooner.If you’ve ever thought, “Why did nobody tell me this?” this episode is for you.

This episode of Graduate Students’ Den dives into the often-unspoken realities of maintaining relationships during graduate school. From friendships that slowly fade, to romantic partnerships under pressure, to navigating family expectations and guilt, we unpack how grad school reshapes personal life. Through personal stories, honest reflection, and practical strategies, we explore how graduate students can protect meaningful connections without burning out or feeling like they’re failing in one area or another.

Season 3 of Graduate Students’ Den kicks off with a relaxed and honest conversation featuring John and Kelsey. In this opening episode, the panel reflects on winter break, the realities of grad life, and what it really takes to apply to and survive graduate school. We also talk about resetting for a new semester, managing expectations, and finding your rhythm as the academic year unfolds. Whether you’re considering grad school, newly admitted, or already deep in the journey, this episode sets the tone for a thoughtful and supportive season ahead.

Leadership, identity, vision. In this episode of Graduate Students’ Den, we talk with the director of BGSU’s School of Media & Communications - Dr. Cheryl Bracken - about her journey, the challenges and rewards of leading in academia, and what it takes to build an inclusive, forward-looking media school. Whether you’re a current student, aspiring leader, or future faculty — this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and real talk about what leadership truly means.

What does effective graduate research look like, and how do you find a mentor who guides you to success? In this episode of Graduate Students Den, Halima, Kelsey, and John welcome Professor Louisa Ha from BGSU’s School of Media and Communication. She shares her journey as a scholar focusing on social media influencers, online audiences, and global media communication. She reveals how she mentors graduate students to publish, collaborate, and carve their own path. Whether you are just starting your graduate journey or you are deep in research mode, this episode gives you practical advice, mentorship insights, and inspiration to take your work to the next level.

Prelims and proposal defenses are two of the most nerve-wracking milestones in any graduate student’s journey. In this episode of Graduate Students’ Den, hosts John, Kelsey, and Halima are joined by GCA President Madison Clatt to unpack their real experiences navigating these major academic hurdles.Whether you’re just starting to think about your prelims or gearing up for your proposal defense, this episode offers honest advice, a few laughs, and plenty of encouragement to help you push through with confidence.🎓 Tune in to hear what really happens behind the scenes — and how to come out stronger on the other side.

Starting a PhD can be both exciting and a little intimidating. In this episode of Graduate Students Den, hosts John, Kelsey, and Halima sit down with Aisha Tahir, a first-year PhD student in the School of Media and Communication at BGSU, to talk about what the first semester of doctoral life really feels like.Aisha opens up about finding balance between research and life, adjusting to new expectations, and navigating the highs and lows of the PhD journey. Whether you’re just applying or already in grad school, this conversation offers practical advice, honest reflections, and a comforting reminder that you’re not alone.

What does life after graduate school really look like in academia? This week on The Graduate Students Den, hosts John, Kelsey, and Halima sit down with Dr. Lisa Hanasono, professor in the School of Media and Communication at BGSU and Academic Director of Training at the National Center for Faculty Development & Diversity (NCFDD). She shares practical advice on building a sustainable academic career, navigating the job market, finding work-life balance, and redefining success beyond publications and tenure.Tune in for an honest and inspiring conversation about how to not just survive but thrive in academia.📧 Contact Dr. Hanasono: [email protected]🌐 Learn more about the NCFDD: https://www.ncfdd.org/

What really happens after you hit submit on your graduate school application? In this episode of Graduate Students’ Den, John, Halima, and Kelsey sit down with Dr. Radhika Gajjala and Dr. Yanqin Lu from BGSU’s Graduate Programs Committee to uncover the truth about how applications are reviewed.We discuss the entire process, from start to finish, what makes a strong application stand out, and the common mistakes that can hold applicants back. Our guests share insider advice on crafting powerful personal statements, the weight given to GPAs, what faculty look for beyond GPAs, and the qualities that truly define a strong graduate student.If you’ve ever wondered what admissions committees really think, this conversation pulls back the curtain and gives you the tools to approach the process with confidence.

What is it really like to stand at the front of a classroom while still sitting in one yourself? In this episode of Graduate Students’ Den, John, Kelsey, and Halima get honest about the highs, lows, and hilarious moments of being both graduate students and instructors.From juggling lesson plans with classroom deadlines to those small “teaching wins” that make it all worthwhile, this conversation explores the balancing act that defines graduate school life. Whether you are already teaching, about to start, or just curious what happens behind the scenes, this episode offers honest insights, a few laughs, and practical advice for grad instructors everywhere.

Applying to graduate school can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. In this episode of Graduate Students’ Den, we sit down with Eliza Dickey from BGSU’s Graduate College to talk about everything prospective students need to know — from writing a strong personal statement and building a standout CV, to understanding standardized tests, funding opportunities, fee waivers, and even the impact of recent policies like Ohio’s SB1.Whether you’re considering BGSU or any other program, this conversation will help you navigate the graduate admissions process with clarity and confidence.

In this episode of Graduate Students’ Den, we sit down with Dr. Divya S, a new Assistant Professor in BGSU’s School of Media and Communication. She shares her journey from graduate student to faculty member, what it’s been like starting in academia, and her advice for graduate students considering similar paths. Join us for an honest conversation about challenges, lessons learned, and the excitement of building a career in higher education.

The Graduate Students Den is back for Season 2! In this first episode, we catch up on what we did over the summer—work, rest, travel, and everything in between—and share what we’re looking forward to (and maybe dreading) this semester. Join us for a fun and honest conversation about graduate school life, balancing work with personal growth, and the goals we’re setting for the Fall.Whether you’re a returning listener or new to the Den, this is the perfect way to start the semester with us.

Grad school is more than coursework and research; it’s also about mastering the unspoken rules that set successful students apart. In this episode, we unpack the hidden curriculum of graduate education. From how to navigate office hours effectively, to the unexpected power of leadership roles, and the importance of reading beyond the syllabu,s we explore the subtle skills that no one formally teaches but everyone is expected to know.

In this episode, we’re joined by three amazing guests—Dr. Xiaofeng Jia, Erin Main, and Victoria Main—to unpack what life really looks like after grad school. From landing a tenure-track job to juggling adjunct gigs and starting a PhD after years in the service industry, our guests share honest insights, hard truths, and a little hope for the road ahead. Whether you're nearing the finish line or just getting started, this one's for you.

This week on Graduate Students Den, John, Kelsey Stanfield, Halima, Anaclate, and Kelsey Zook get real about the ups and downs of advisor relationships and the sometimes messy world of department politics. We’re talking awkward emails, navigating power dynamics, finding supportive mentors, and knowing when to speak up (or stay quiet). If you’ve ever wondered how other grad students are surviving the academic maze, this one’s for you!

Grad school is rewarding—but let’s be honest, it’s not always financially glamorous. In this Graduate Students’ Den episode, we break down the essentials of surviving and thriving on a grad school budget. Our panel dives into funding basics—from stipends to TA/RA positions. We get real about the search for funding and student loans. Whether you're a fully funded student or figuring it out as you go, this episode is packed with tips to help you secure the bag and stay sane.

In this episode of Graduate Students’ Den, we tackle the all-too-familiar struggle of impostor syndrome—those nagging feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy that many grad students experience. Our panelists, John, Kelsey Stanfield, Kelsey Zook, Halima, and Anaclate, open up about their own battles with feeling like they do not belong, the academic and social pressures that trigger these thoughts, and the mental toll they can take. We also discuss practical strategies for overcoming impostor syndrome, from mindset shifts to building a strong support system. If you have ever questioned whether you deserve to be in grad school, this episode is for you! Tune in for an honest, relatable, and uplifting conversation.

Grad school can be overwhelming, and burnout is a real struggle for many students. In this episode, our panelists—John, Halima, Kelsey Stanfield, Kelsey Zook, Anaclate, and Osama—dive into the challenges of balancing academic demands, personal well-being, and social life. We discuss the stigma around mental health in academia, share personal experiences with burnout, and explore strategies for managing stress, setting boundaries, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. We also examine the role universities play in supporting student mental health and discuss practical resources available for grad students. Tune in for an insightful and relatable conversation on prioritizing well-being while navigating the pressures of graduate school!

In this episode of Graduate Students Den, our panelists—John, Kelsey Stanfield, Halima, Anaclate, and Kelsey Zook—break down grad school's harsh truths and surprises. From managing coursework, research, and deadlines to juggling finances, mental health, and social life, we dive deep into what we thought grad school would be like versus what it is. Is work-life balance even possible? Are stipends ever enough? Would we still choose grad school knowing what we know now? Tune in for an honest, unfiltered conversation about the grad school experience! 🎧🔥

In this first episode of Graduate Students Den, we (John, Kelsey Stanfield, Kelsey Zook, Halima, Anaclate, and Osama) introduce ourselves and dive into the big question—why did we choose grad school? We share our backgrounds, what led us to pursue an advanced degree, and whether we’d make the same choice again. Is grad school worth it? Would we recommend it to others? We get real about the highs, the struggles, and what this podcast is all about. Tune in for an honest and unfiltered conversation about the grad school experience!