Name: Smrita Acharya

Program: Ph.D. Candidate in Environmental Sciences, Ph.D. Program

Department + Research Topic: Department of Environment, Geology and Natural Resources

My research topic is Water resource and climate assessment in the Sagarmatha National Park region, Nepal. Using hydroclimatic, geochemical and isotopic data, the research assesses the water quality and quantity issues in the high-altitude mountain region.

Takeaways from the Institute for Teaching and Mentoring: 

I had best experience at The Institute on Teaching and Mentoring. It provided the comprehensive package of support with networking, recruiting, academic/career counselling and advocacy. Moreover, it also provides funds for professional development, academic support, service grants and virtual support for any questions/concerns. As a doctoral scholar, I was thrilled by the SREB commitment to help scholars to achieve fulfilling career with their outstanding services for professional development with webinars, sessions, forums, job boards and scholar directory. The distinguished speakers delivered plenary and other sessions on higher education and to help graduate students navigate early career faculty jobs with onsite networking and faculty recruitment stations. It included sessions with detailed guidance on job search, CV review from distinguished professors, prepare application packages and ace the interview. Speakers and doctoral scholars shared comprehensive overview of challenges of a graduate student, dissertation writing processes, and provided with proven strategies/toolkit to navigate and maintain motivation. The SREB provided a space to discuss academic challenges, networking and collaboration opportunities with commitment to life-long support. I am privileged to be SREB scholar and thankful to the institute for immense teaching and mentoring support and resources. I feel more confident and motivated to complete my academic journey with the institute support. I learned that being with supportive mentors, resilience, taking care of yourself, adopting a growth mindset, self-advocacy and adaptability were crucial for personal and professional growth.