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SAFE RETURN TO CAMPUS

Spring semester began Monday, January 25, with a mix of in-person instruction and expanded online classes. Visit Mason’s Safe Return to Campus Plan for COVID-19 updates.

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George Mason University

Professional Development Series

Professional Development Series, Spring 2021

Wednesdays at 12:00 p.m.

February 3Carly Solis, Natasha Latouf, Lara Kamal, Spectrum
REUs, Internships, and Summer Research
There are many exciting opportunities available for summer research and internships. Come learn about the different opportunities and talk to students who have gone through the experience!
February 10Kathryn Fernandez, Open Discussion
The Brilliance Narrative and Dangers of a Single Story Roundtable
Have you thought about what the dangers of a single story could be and the power that it can hold? Come watch Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's Ted Talk with us and participate in a roundtable discussion on the implications of single stories told about physicists and how it's tied to a brilliance narrative in our culture.
February 17Spectrum
Pathways After a Bachelor's Degree
Congratulations! You are receiving your B.S. in Physics or Astronomy! There are several options available, from grad school, including law school and med school, to industry positions, to positions in the military and government. We'll walk you through some common paths and provide testimonials from people who have taken those paths.

 

February 24Kathryn Fernandez, Kevin Collins, Jeffery McKaig, Melissa Bierschenk, Luis Fernandez
Graduate Student Panel
Come talk to current grad students about the experience and what they wish they knew when they started out!

 

March 3Spectrum
Effective Communication and Avoiding Unhealthy Situations in Academia
Communication can be difficult, especially when there are power dynamics at play. Lack of communication can lead to unhealthy or toxic situations in academia, which can in turn negatively influence your mental health. Come learn about effective communication, how to bridge the power dynamic gap, and what to do if you find yourself in a toxic situation.

 

March 10TBD
Transfer Student Panel
Come talk to current GMU students and former transfer students to find out about the experience, tips and tricks to get you started, and what they wish they knew as a transfer student!

 

March 17Open Discussion
Department Townhall
This relatively informal discussion hour will be used to check in on the Spring 2021 semester, address current concerns in teaching, and discuss any necessary changes. Student attendance and contributions are welcome!

 

March 24Open Discussion
Case Studies Roundtable
Join us as we discuss different departmental-inspired case studies to spark discussions between faculty, students, and problem solve common scenarios!

 

March 31Spectrum
Inclusive Language in Classrooms
Language is an important component of physics identity and a sense of belonging in the field. Join us as we discuss phrases to avoid, and ways to change our language to be more inclusive.

 

April 7GMU Faculty
Writing for Science
Science writing can be daunting, especially to those unexperienced with it. It is different than the types of writing most students are used to, and has a steep learning curve. Join us as GMU faculty teaches tips and tricks to science writing, and how to effectively discuss your research!

 

April 14TBD
Science Communication
Between scientists and the public, there is a disconnect in communication that can lead to some (occasionally funny) misunderstandings. Join us as we discuss effective science communication, to all ages and levels!

 

April 21TBD
Outreach Opportunities
We will discuss possible opportunities to participate in outreach in physics and astronomy, and how to effectively communicate during outreach!

 

April 28Spectrum
Spectrum Mentoring and Future Plans
Join us for the final lunch talk of the semester, where we will lay out the future plans for Spectrum mentoring, new initiatives, and discuss what you want to see in the future!