Communication
The ability to effectively communicate your research to a variety of audiences is an essential professional skill. From building healthy writing habits to preparing for conferences to dissertation writing retreats, OPD helps students and postdocs improve their writing and presenting skills through a variety of programs offered throughout the year.
Check out our upcoming communication workshops!
"I see myself as a successful researcher, but if I didn't develop complementary skills—if I couldn't lead, present, or write—I wouldn't have the tools to effectively communicate what I'm researching. I have attended many OPD workshops and have benefited greatly. I have also encouraged graduate students in our lab, department, and across campus to consider both their professional and academic development; these two things go hand-in-hand to ensure success in securing the right job and excelling in your career."
– Elroy Aguiar, PhD (Former Senior Postdoctoral Research Associate, Kinesiology)
UMass Writing Center
In addition to OPD workshops, graduate students and postdocs are invited to access other UMass support systems to improve their communication skills. In particular, the UMass Amherst Writing Center offers face-to-face and online consultations to help graduate students and postdocs clarify ideas, reorganize text, set writing goals, process feedback, create revision plans, and build productive writing practices. In addition to one-time meetings, students can schedule weekly appointments and use the time as an opportunity for accountability.
Questions?
opd [at] grad [dot] umass [dot] edu (Contact us for more information) on OPD’s communication workshops and assistance.