Making It “work”: A Student-led Discussion Regarding the Financial Aspects of Graduate School

The decision to pursue graduate training is multifaceted, and many graduate students experience financial strain before, during, and after the process. This panel, sponsored by the ABCT Student Membership Committee, will provide students and trainees insight into making informed financial decisions related to all aspects of graduate training - ranging from inquiring about salary in research assistant jobs and considering cost of living expenses based on geographical region to pursuing funding opportunities and identifying sources for summer stipends. Student panelists will first define key terms (e.g., stipend, tuition remission, direct costs) and distinguish between common funding sources (e.g., scholarships, grants, assistantships). Panelists will then address how financial considerations have informed their decisions regarding the application process (for graduate school, internship, etc.), interviewing, geography (and associated cost of living), housing, loan repayment, health benefits, and more. Student panelists will share their wisdom and “lessons learned.” Panelists will also discuss how financial considerations might shape graduate students' chosen career paths. Questions and contributions from the audience will be encouraged.

This session does not offer continuing education credit (CE).