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Does Your Experience Counts As Work Experience (+ Examples)

Not all experience is created equal — but what counts as work experience and what doesn’t? This guide will explain what experience to include on your resume and why

2 years ago   •   13 min read

Entry level position … requires 3 years of experience.

If you've ever noticed a similar phrase on a job ad and seen red, you're not alone. Most jobs — even some entry-level positions — ask for at least some experience in a similar role. The problem is, it's increasingly hard to tell what counts as 'experience' and what doesn't. Is an internship work experience? Volunteering? Hobbies? The answer, unfortunately, is yes and no.

Here's exactly what counts as work experience for your resume, what doesn't, and how to tell the difference.

What counts as work experience (and what doesn’t)

Here’s a short list of things that can — but don’t necessarily — belong on your resume:

• Volunteering
• Internships
• Hobbies and extracurricular activities
• Personal projects
• Babysitting, fast food, and other side jobs
• University coursework

So, how do you work out what counts as work experience and whether to list it on your resume? Follow this simple rule of thumb: If it's the most relevant experience you have, include it on your resume. If you have enough other experience to fill up a one-page resume, leave it off.

How has the idea of traditional work experience changed in 2024?

As we make our way through 2024, we're seeing a shift in what's stamped as 'experience'. Sure, your classic job roles still snag that title, but there's a growing club of contenders.

The modern rise in remote work, the gig economy, and digital skills have redefined the definition of traditional work experience. Virtual roles are now as valued as in-office positions, and proficiency in digital tools and online platforms can greatly enhance a resume as much as paid experience. Post-pandemic employers value adaptability and independence, and modern recruiters are far more open to accepting personal projects, freelance work, and remote learning on your resume than in previous years.

Paid vs. unpaid experience

When deciding if your experience counts as work experience for your resume, paid positions often hold more weight with recruiters than unpaid experience, as these roles typically come with tangible responsibilities and expectations.

However, unpaid roles, like internships, personal projects, and volunteer work, can be just as impactful, especially if they're industry-relevant and showcase the right skills. In both cases, it's the skills acquired, projects undertaken, and accomplishments that stand out to employers.

Does volunteering count as work experience?

Volunteering is a pretty safe bet to include on your resume. Even though it’s not paid experience, most volunteer roles usually have similar requirements to traditional workplaces — things like requiring volunteers to be committed, on time, and perform their set tasks — which makes it one of the best things to include on your resume if you don’t have a lot of paid work experience.

Here's an example:

• When to include it: If you don’t have more relevant work experience.
• When to leave it off: If you have enough paid experience to fill at least one page on your resume.

Do internships count as work experience?

Not exactly — most companies won’t count internships toward the number of years’ required, but this can depend on the company. Regardless, internships are still a great way to demonstrate accomplishments in a professional setting, especially if they’re in the same industry as the jobs you’re applying for.

• When to include it: If the internship was in your field or you can use it to demonstrate transferable skills.
• When to leave it off: If it’s been a few years since the internship(s) and you’ve racked up more experience since then.

Does research count as work experience?

Post-graduate research definitely counts as work experience. If you held a graduate research assistant position, you can list that in your regular work experience section , including the employer, dates, and relevant accomplishments.

Undergraduate research doesn’t officially count as work experience, but you can still list in on your resume. Include your involvement in research projects in a projects, education, or publications section , depending on how you choose to format your resume.

Or here's an example of including a university project on your resume:

• When to include it: If you held a graduate research position or participated in significant undergraduate research.
• When to leave it off: If you were only marginally involved in the research and it doesn’t demonstrate relevant skills or experience.

Does college count as work experience?

No. While the education section is an important part of your resume — especially if you’re still in school or have only recently graduated — it’s not the same thing as work experience. Regardless of how relevant it is, it would look naïve and out of touch to include things like coursework as part of your work experience. List these in your education section instead — if this is your most relevant experience, it can still go at the top of your resume.

• When to include it: If you graduated recently and your degree is the most relevant experience you have.
• When to leave it off: If you graduated more than a few years ago, your coursework is less relevant than more recent work experience.

Do hobbies and activities count as work experience?

Generally, no — which doesn’t mean you can never list them on your resume. Private hobbies aren’t particularly relevant to most jobs, with some exceptions (for example, if you want to use your involvement in team sports to highlight your teamwork skills). More organized activities, like involvement in extracurricular clubs and organizations, are a better way to showcase accomplishments.

• When to include it: If you can demonstrate relevant accomplishment or transferable skills.
• When to leave it off: If it’s a personal hobby without any notable accomplishments, like reading or taking long walks.

Do personal projects count as work experience?

As Work experience? Not necessarily. But as a valuable addition to your resume? Yes! Personal or educational projects can be a great way of demonstrating how you've used your hard skills in action, which is far more persuasive than simply sticking them on a skills list at the end of your resume. If you can, link directly to a GitHub or portfolio so potential employers can judge your work for themselves.

Examples of relevant personal projects for resumes:

• Website design or development : If you've built a website from scratch or revamped an existing one, this can  showcases skills in coding, design, SEO, and more.
• Writing a book or blog : Demonstrates dedication, expertise in a particular area, and writing skills.
• Creating a mobile app : Shows programming skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Art projects : If you're applying for design or creative roles, personal art projects can display creativity and attention to detail.
• Community service projects : Organizing a community event or starting a neighborhood initiative can be great for roles requiring leadership or organizational skills.

• When to include it: If you want to demonstrate relevant hard skills that you haven’t used in a traditional work environment.
• When to leave it off: If it was more of a casual hobby or it’s still unfinished — completed projects make a better impression.

Does babysitting count as work experience?

Yes! Especially if you’re still in school, part-time gigs like babysitting, retail, or food service are a great way to show that you have a good work ethic and some kind of experience.

• When to include it: If you don’t have more relevant paid work experience in your field or industry.
• When to leave it off: If it was a once-off or very occasional thing.

Does fast food count as sales experience?

Yes, if you can demonstrate relevant accomplishments. Again, use common sense when talking about part-time jobs — if a job posting calls for 5+ years’ experience as an account manager and you spent a summer as an assistant manager at a restaurant, you’ll look a bit out of touch if you try to try to claim it’s the same thing.

But if the ad simply asks for “ sales experience ,” you can absolutely list appropriate accomplishments from a part-time job.

• When to include it: If you can include hard numbers or metrics to quantify your accomplishments .
• When to leave it off: If you only spend a few months in the job — especially if it wasn't particularly recent — you might be hard-pressed to list any real accomplishments from that position.

Do short-term jobs count as work experience?

Frequent short-term or contract positions can be challenging to present effectively on a resume. To ensure short-term positions reflect positively, group similar roles or list them under a common heading like "Contract Positions" or "Freelance Engagements". Emphasize transferable skills and notable achievements, even if they were gained in a short period. Using phrases like "accelerated project completion" or "quickly adapted to diverse roles" can underscore adaptability and value in brief employment stints.

What to do if you don’t have enough experience

It's the age-old conundrum: How do you get experience if you need experience just to get a job? Here's how to bridge the gap between your experiences and the requirements of the position and how to search for an entry-level role without any experience:

Get more experience

It might sound glib, but the best thing to do if you don't have any experience is to get some. Instead of waiting around for someone to hire you, why not take advantage of the gig economy and do it yourself?

Go freelance

Engaging in freelance and gig work not only offers experience for your resume but also provides a platform to showcase your skills to future employers. Create a freelance profile on sites like Upwork, Fiverr, or Reddit and advertise your services directly. It might not exactly be your dream job, but it'll get your foot in the door and allow you to list some actual work experience and gain industry-relevant skills.

Consider virtual and remote opportunities

In today's evolving job market, virtual internships are becoming more common, helping you acquire industry experience from any location. Remote projects also offer opportunities to showcase adaptability and digital proficiency and can significantly enhance your resume, especially for roles that value global perspective and competitive digital skills.

Contact recent startups

Recently funded startups are more likely to take a chance on less experienced hires, since they're an unknown quantity themselves. They often don't have strict hiring processes in place, which makes it easier to get your foot in the door. You can then use that experience as a springboard to bigger and better opportunities — or you might decide you enjoy helping to build something from the ground up.

It’s a cliché for a reason: Who you know really is more important than what you know. Reach out to people in your chosen industry on LinkedIn to ask for an informational interview , ask people you know if they have any job leads or if they can connect you with people who might, use your college’s alumni network, and reach out directly to second or even third-degree connections for advice.

Focus your search on graduate schemes

Plenty of employers offer dedicated graduate schemes to target promising entry-level candidates. If you’re in an industry where graduate schemes are common (think fields like finance, management, law, marketing, and even retail), it’s worth searching for these in addition to applying directly for jobs.

An entry-level resume template

Here’s a sample entry-level resume template that looks impressive — without including any paid work experience:

For more entry-level resume examples, check out our professional ATS resume templates .

How to write a resume with limited experience

Crafting a compelling resume with limited experience can feel daunting, but it can be done. Here are some key techniques to effectively showcase your achievements, skills, and potential, even without traditional paid experience.

List accomplishments in bullet points

No matter what you choose to include on your resume, always list at least 1-3 relevant accomplishments in bullet point format. You should start each bullet point with an action verb ( led , organized, revamped, etc.), clearly state what you did, and include the result or some sort of measurable success.

Tailor you resume to the job description

Customize your work experience for each application by:

• Analyzing the job description: Start by reading the job description thoroughly and highlighting the keywords, skills, and experience they're looking for.
• Sticking to relevant experience: If your experience a) isn't directly relevant to the job you're applying for, and b) doesn't showcase any relevant skills or accomplishments, it doesn't belong on your resume. Reorder your work experiences to showcase the most relevant positions at the top.
• Adjusting job titles (with caution): If a previous job title doesn't directly align with your application, consider tweaking the title. However, ensure that it remains truthful and is backed up by references or further details.
• Updating your resume summary: Tailor your summary to align with your intended position, and make sure to include the job title of the position you're applying for.

Highlight transferable skills

You don't need experience to highlight transferable skills that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Soft skills like teamwork, communication, time management , and attention to detail are in demand no matter the industry or role, so choose accomplishments that illustrate them.

Include the right keywords

To make it past modern ATS software, your resume needs to include keywords that align with the job description. As far as the ATS is concerned, it doesn't matter if those keywords reference volunteer work or paid experience, as long as they appear somewhere on your resume.

Upload your resume to the tool below to find out if you’ve included the right keywords and skills for your application. The tool also scans your resume for mistakes and gives you personalized suggestions on how to improvement.

List key technical skills

If you have hard skills — things like proficiency with specific software, programming languages, hardware, or certifications — list them directly in a skills or additional information section. To get a feel for what technical skills are required, scan the job description and browse our database of top industry-specific hard skills and keywords .

If you want to find technical skills relevant to the job you’re applying to, use our hard skills and keywords tool below — it’ll give you a list of skills to include in your skills section .

Create appropriate section titles

Listing other types of experience on your resume doesn’t mean hiding the fact that it wasn’t official work experience. Especially if you’re a recent graduate or applying for an entry-level position, hiring managers understand that you may not have a lot of paid work experience.

Instead of trying to be sneaky about it, be upfront about what kind of experience it really was and let your accomplishments speak for themselves. Some appropriate section titles to use on your resume include:

• Community Involvement
• Hobbies and Interests

Balancing honesty with a targeted resume

It's vital to find a balance between being honest about your work experience and framing it strategically to meet job requirements. Always ensure the skills and experience you claim are genuine. Over-exaggerating or stretching the truth too far can be seen as dishonest and will negatively affect your application rather than helping.

Frequently asked questions

Should i apply for a job if i don’t have the required experience.

Regardless of whether or not your experience is official work experience, Yes. Obviously, there's some common sense involved; if a senior or mid-level position is asking for 7-10 years of work experience and you have maybe one, don't apply. But if it's an entry-level position asking for 1-3 years, or a job asking for 5 years and you have a solid 3 or 4, go ahead!

Job ads often exaggerate how much experience is really needed or describe their ideal candidate when they aren’t realistically expecting to hire someone who ticks every single box. If you have a reasonable level of experience and meet most of the criteria in the job description, go ahead and apply — you won’t look silly or out of touch, and you might even land the job.

Why do job ads ask for more experience than they need?

You should think of the requirements in a job posting more as more of a wish list: In the best possible situation, this is what the ideal candidate would look like. But hiring managers understand that the perfect candidate isn’t always out there, so any reasonable recruiter is going to expect people to apply who don’t meet every single criteria. Just make sure you can tell the difference between a ‘nice to have’ and a true ‘must have,’ like basic qualifications or key skills.

How do I find out how much experience is really needed?

The job ad is the most obvious way, but it isn’t the only way. Search LinkedIn for people with the same job title and look up the company on Glassdoor. This should give you a good idea of how much experience people in that role realistically need and whether the company routinely hires candidates with fewer qualifications than they’re asking for.

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• Colleges & Universities

What Counts When Applying to Grad School: GPA vs. Work Experience

Both count—and strength in one area can help make up for weakness in the other

Daniel has 10+ years of experience reporting on investments and personal finance for outlets like AARP Bulletin and Exceptional magazine, in addition to being a column writer for Fatherly.

A degree from a top-tier graduate school can open a lot of professional doors, and savvy students do everything they can to get into the best program possible. But just what factors do admissions officers consider when they look over applications from prospective students? Here's what you need to know about the admissions process and how applicants are evaluated.

Key Takeaways

• Most graduate schools take a holistic approach to applicants, looking at both academics and other factors.
• When applying, focus on your strengths but don't neglect to address your weaknesses.
• Solid work experience may help offset a less-than-spectacular grade point average.

How Admissions Officers Judge Applicants

The graduate school admissions process is not always transparent, but a successful application typically includes the following:

• Undergraduate transcripts, including course grades
• Graduate school test results (usually the graduate record examination (GRE) , although some fields have their own specialized exams)
• A resume with a work history
• Letters of recommendation
• An essay or statement of purpose 
• An interview (either in person or by phone or Zoom)

Which of these matters the most to universities? According to many education experts, graduate admissions committees usually take a holistic approach to selecting candidates. For instance, they may have certain thresholds for GRE scores or undergraduate grade point averages, which are commonly called GPAs. But as a general rule, they consider all aspects of an application in making a decision.

Recognize Your Weaknesses and Use Your Strengths

According to higher-ed experts, the best approach when applying to grad school is to work hard to address the weakest components of your application. You may have stellar test scores, a high GPA, and enthusiastic letters of recommendation, but don't be complacent and submit a lackluster essay.

If, on the other hand, standardized tests are your Achilles heel, try to improve the numbers by taking an extra GRE preparation class. Schedule the exam far enough in advance that you have time to retake it if the need arises. You can take the exam once every 21 days, up to five times within a continuous 12-month period. And you can take the test at home if your equipment meets certain requirements.

Does this mean that every factor in your application has the same weight? Not necessarily. Vijay Chidambaram, assistant professor at the University of Texas, Austin, ranked application components from most important to least important as follows:

• Recommendation letters
• Research and/or published papers
• Industry internships
• Experience as a teacher's assistant

Similarly, a survey by Kaplan Test Prep found that 44% of graduate school admissions officers said the student's undergraduate transcript was the first thing they examined. While traditional factors continue to be important, roughly 27% of admissions officers said they also look at prospective students' social media profiles. As such, if your undergrad GPA is weak, there's not much you can do about it now. But you can emphasize your strengths to help compensate.

Certain fields have a different set of criteria from others. While GPA is important, some schools may place greater emphasis on a student's work experience, which might trump a mediocre GPA.

Avoid These Application Killers

Some all-too-common common mistakes can undermine your application. According to Gradschoolmatch.com, they include:

• Applying at the deadline. Needless to say, you don't want to apply after the deadline has passed, but even applying toward the end can cause you to miss out on scholarship opportunities or be rejected altogether if the class has already filled up.
• Not answering questions on the application. Plan to address every question and try to include specific details and examples where possible.
• Copying and pasting answers. If you're filling out multiple applications, avoid the temptation to repurpose your responses. Instead, tailor your answers to each specific program.
• Using poor grammar and misspelling words. Don't rush to press "submit." Proofread your application and have someone else read it, too.
• Using grandiloquent writing. Don't try too hard to impress the admissions committee with your vocabulary. Strive for a tone that's conversational and professional.
• Not speaking with your recommenders. While you can't write their letters for them, you can provide them with information about the programs you're applying to and remind them why you'd be a great fit there.

The key to a strong application is knowing what the school is looking for and adjusting your application to fit that mold. It's a good idea to seek input from recently graduated alumni about the admissions standards at your schools of choice and to ask them what you can do to set yourself apart.

How Does Work Experience Influence a Grad School Application?

Admissions officers look at different factors when they review the applications of prospective students, including their GPA, recommendation letters, GRE scores, and work experience. Although some of these rank high on the list of requirements for graduate school, your experience on the job weighs heavily with admissions officers. In fact, some programs want their students to be working professionals. For instance, some MBA programs want applicants to have work experience. Officers for other programs often look at, but won't put as much emphasis on the professional work applicants do in the workforce.

Does Work Experience Make up for a Low GPA on My Grad School Application?

There are a number of factors that grad schools review when they're reviewing applications from prospective students. Your grades are a very important part of the decision-making process, which means admissions officers will scrutinize your grades and transcripts carefully. But your work experience may offset a low GPA. If you're applying for an MBA program with less-than-stellar undergraduate grades but are a working professional with five years of experience in the finance industry, the admissions officer may consider you to be a suitable candidate. Keep in mind that a similar candidate looking for a spot in a highly competitive program with the same experience and good grades may rank higher than you.

What Is the Average GPA Required by Most Grad Schools?

That depends on the school and program. The average GPA required by most graduate schools ranges between 2.5 and 3.0. Keep in mind that you may need a higher grade point average for competitive programs at some of the top schools, such as MBA and business programs at Harvard and Columbia.

The Bottom Line

Applying for graduate school can be very daunting. There are so many factors to consider, including filling out the application, writing an essay, sitting for the grad school entrance exam, getting recommendation letters, submitting your transcripts, and providing other information like your work experience.

While most schools look at most or all of these things, the two biggest factors are your grades and work experience. Some schools may weigh professional experience more heavily than others, so having low grades may not completely eliminate you from the applicant pool. Be sure you do your research to find out how your GPA and work experience will help or hinder your application.

ETS. " The GRE® General Test ."

Kaplan. " Kaplan Test Prep’s 2014 Survey of Graduate School Admissions Officers ."

Kaplan. " Kaplan Survey: The Percentage of College Admissions Officers Who Say Applicants’ Social Media Content is “Fair Game” Ticks Up ."

Gradschoolmatch.com. " 10 Common Grad School Application Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them) ."

My Degree Guide. " GPA for Grad School: Best Range for Acceptance [2023 Guide] ."

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Wharton Stories

How to prepare a strong phd application.

Doctoral candidates and departmental coordinators at the Wharton School outline a few tips to help you navigate the PhD application process.

It’s no secret the application process can be intimidating. Where do you start? What exactly are schools looking for on your application? What materials do you need to submit? Doctoral candidates and departmental coordinators at the Wharton School have outlined a few tips to help you navigate the process.

Don’t Delay the Process

A successful PhD applicant starts thinking about their application months or even years before the deadlines. For Alejandro Lopez Lira , a third year student in Finance, the application process began a year before he actually submitted the paperwork. He said, “I spoke to my advisors way before, like one year before, about my letters of recommendation, where to apply, everything involved in the process.”

Each program has different requirements, which can make for a tedious process. Karren Knowlton , a third year in Management, said, “I took a little while to draft a personal statement. I had my mom, who teaches creative writing, and a few other people that I trust just read over it. Then you have to tweak it for different schools because they want slightly different things.”

Taking time to prepare your application is critical. Starting the process sooner rather than later gives you several advantages:

• It allows your letter of recommendation writers enough time in advance to thoughtfully prepare a letter that speaks to who you are as a PhD candidate.
• It gives you more time to review your materials, fix any errors, and proofread, proofread, proofread.
• Finally, it means a lot less stress when the deadline starts rapidly approaching. By planning ahead, you’ll have a much smoother process applying.

Get Letters of Recommendation

Prof. Matthew Bidwell , who previously served as the doctoral coordinator for the Management program , said a common mistake he sees are letters of recommendations from employers. Although he said it is impressive to see work experience, having an employer write a letter is not the best choice.

“We don’t pay very much attention to those because rightly or wrongly, we worry that they’re not looking for the kinds of things that we’re looking for,” he said. “If you have one, it’s not a disaster, but when you see people with two or three — most of their recommendations coming from their work — that kind of heightens our concern. You’re committing to a fairly specialized career, do you really know what that career entails?”

Instead, he suggests getting to know an academic who will be able to write a recommendation attesting to your ability to manage doctoral-level research and work.

Include Research/Work Experience in Your Field

Each program has a unique set of criteria to evaluate applicants, but several doctoral coordinators agree that some research and work experience in your field of interest will strengthen your application overall.

Prof. Fernando Ferreira , doctoral coordinator for the Business Economics and Public Policy and Real Estate programs, thinks work experience can be useful in demonstrating an applicant’s abilities. He said, “Any work experience after undergraduate school is important. If that experience is more related to research it’s even better, but work experience in general is always good.”

Prof. Guy David , doctoral coordinator for the Health Care Management & Economics program , thinks that work experience benefits applicants in terms of giving them a broader view of business. “Work experience creates retrospection about how the world works, how organizations make decisions, and how people function in various situations,” he said.

However, he warns that spending too much time away from an academic setting can have its drawbacks too. “It may lead people to start their PhD later when they are not in the habit of immersing themselves in rigorous studies and have a shorter horizons to develop a name for themselves,” he said.

Although having both research and work experience can strengthen your application, you will not be denied entry because you are lacking either.

Prof. Bidwell said, “I think research experience does give us some confidence that people have some idea about what it is that we do. In terms of work experience, I think we don’t have a strong view. We quite like work experience, but we also take people straight out of undergrad.”

Prepare for the Standardized Tests

Most PhD programs require students to take the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE). Having high test scores is a key part of an application as it tests skills learned over the course of many years in school. Quantitative skills are especially important when applying to doctoral programs in business areas. Much like any other standardized test, the GRE requires preparation.

Karren, who took the GRE twice to ensure her scores were high enough, offered advice to those who may be struggling. “I would absolutely recommend practicing the writing beforehand. Look up examples and have your outline structured,” she said. “So much of it is just getting the right structure and how you formulate your arguments so knowing what they’re looking for is key.”

Test prep can be time-consuming, but like anything else, practice makes perfect. There are multiple text books and online sites to help you prepare for the exam. Karren aimed to improve her math scores the second time she took the GRE and recommended this site to help strengthen math skills.

Taking advantage of resources to help you study can limit the number of times you need to take the GRE while ensuring you score high enough to remain in the applicant pool.

Watch a Webinar with Former Wharton Vice Dean Catherine Schrand

Posted: August 4, 2017

• Admissions and Applying
• Advancement and Transition

Doctoral Programs

Start your doctoral journey.

Whether you’re just starting your research on PhD programs or you’re ready to apply, we’ll walk you through the steps to take to become a successful PhD candidate.

Deciding to get a PhD

You might be surprised to find out what you can do with a PhD in business.

Is an Academic Career for You ? What Makes a Successful PhD Student

Preparing for the Doctoral Path

The skills, relationships, and knowledge you need to prepare yourself for a career in academics.

How the PhD Program Works How to Become a Successful PhD Applicant

Choosing the right program

What’s the difference between PhD programs? Find out how to choose one that fits your goals.

What to Consider When Choosing a Doctoral Program What Differentiates R1 Universities?

Starting an application

Tips for a successful application process.

Application Requirements Preparing Your PhD Application

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• CAREER COLUMN
• 09 January 2019

Why earning a PhD is an advantage in today’s industry job market

• Isaiah Hankel 0

Isaiah Hankel is the founder and chief executive of the website Cheeky Scientist.

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

“Companies don’t want to hire PhDs because they’re overqualified and too independent.”

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Does PhD Count As Work Experience? 

Sometimes, you may wonder if study experience, such as a PhD can translate into the professional world. Does PhD count as work experience?

PhD is often counted as work experience. PhD graduates are valued for their ability to be analytical, innovate, and work in teams. These skills are often honed during their days studying for their PhD.

In this post, we explore various perspectives, from academia to industry, shedding light on how a doctoral degree can be perceived by employers.

Short answer, yes, PhD is often counted as work experience. However, when you delve deeper into the question, there are times when a PhD is not considered for work experience.

Take Jane, a recent PhD graduate in computational biology, keen on making her mark in Silicon Valley’s R&D departments.

Jane’s LinkedIn profile sparkles with her publications and the experimental problems she’s solved, mirroring the responsibility and insight you’d expect from someone with years of work experience in industry.

Another example would be John, who spent 4 years completing his thesis in a lab, aiming to become a research scientist.

His CV is a testament to the rigorous work, akin to any industry job experience, with bullet points highlighting his ability to communicate complex scientific ideas and manage undergraduate students in the lab.

For both, the PhD experience is more than just an academic endeavor; it’s a job in itself. Employers, especially in science and tech fields, recognize this.

This is because the skills required to complete a PhD are usually transferable to industry roles, such as:

• problem-solving
• project management, and

However, not every industry values PhD experience the same. In more traditional fields, PhD may be considered as a ‘sabbatical’, which means the time spent studying is not considered for work experience. 

With such employers, you may need to orient your resume to highlight how their PhD research is relevant to the job opportunity they’re offering. This means portraying those years of dedication not just as academic pursuit but as job experience that has equipped them with a unique set of skills.

It’s about showing potential employers that you don’t just want to apply your knowledge exclusively with other PhDs, but are ready to enter and contribute to the broader job market.

Why Is A PhD Study Counts As Work Experience? 

PhD is increasingly recognized for the rigorous work experience it provides, especially by employers who appreciate such qualifications. Here’s why:

PhD Study Is A Full-Time Job, In Most Cases

PhD graduate has typically invested 4 to 6 years in specialized research, akin to a full-time job. This period is not just about expanding academic horizons but also about developing:

• a work ethic,
• resilience, and
• the ability to navigate complex problems. 

In labs and libraries, PhD students act much like project managers, overseeing experiments, managing data, and driving their research forward.

Developing Communication Skills

Communication is key in both academia and industry. Throughout their PhD journey, candidates must articulate their findings, often translating complex concepts for diverse audiences.

This skill is gold in any job, particularly when you need to explain intricate project details to stakeholders or clients. If you can communicate about abstract, complicated PhD-level study concepts to others, you should be able to communicate and explain things in many workplaces.

Working As A Team Player

Collaboration is another critical aspect. PhD students frequently work in teams, coordinating with other:

• researchers,
• undergraduates, and
• professors.

This experience is directly transferable to industry environments where teamwork and leadership are invaluable.

Ability To Research & Innovate

PhD work often leads to publications, a testament to the candidate’s ability to generate, execute, and communicate novel ideas.

This aspect is particularly appealing to R&D departments and innovative industries looking for fresh insights.

Strong Analytical Skills

The analytical skills honed during a PhD are unparalleled. From computational tasks to experimental designs, PhD graduates bring a level of critical thinking and problem-solving prowess that industries, especially in STEM fields, find indispensable.

So, when you spot a PhD on a resume or LinkedIn profile, know that it represents years of work experience packed with relevant skills, from project management to problem-solving, all crucial for a wide array of industry roles.

How To Best Include PhD In Your CV?

Incorporating your PhD into your CV can be a game-changer, especially when you’re eyeing positions that value deep expertise and research skills. However, you do not want to be too much of a show-off with it, as it can turn on potential employers. 

Here are five tips to help you showcase your PhD effectively in your CV:

Start with a strong headline that captures your PhD specialization and the value you bring to potential employers.

Consider something like this: “PhD in Computational Biology with 5+ Years of Research Experience in Genomic Analysis.”

Professional Experience, Not Just Academic Credential

Under your education section, detail your PhD not just as an academic credential but as a professional experience.

Highlight your dissertation topic and briefly describe your research’s significance and the skills it helped you hone, such as experimental design or data analysis.

What Did You Do And Learned When In PhD?

Bullet points are your friends when listing the responsibilities and achievements of your PhD years. Portray these experiences as job roles, emphasizing tasks that align with industry work. These could include:

• managing lab teams,
• leading projects, or
• developing new methodologies.

Mention Publications & Innovations

Don’t shy away from mentioning publications, especially if you’re aiming for R&D positions or roles in science and technology.

Each publication demonstrates your ability to generate new knowledge and communicate complex ideas, critical skills in many fields.

Translate Academic Skills Into Industry Language

Translate academic skills into industry language. For example, “supervised undergraduates in the lab” can be reframed as “managed cross-functional teams in high-stakes projects.”

This helps hiring managers understand the relevance of your PhD experience to the job opportunity.

By treating your PhD as both an educational achievement and a pivotal career experience, you can craft a CV that resonates with both academia and industry, making you a compelling candidate for a variety of roles.

Can You Use Your PhD Supervisor As A Reference In Your CV?

Using your PhD supervisor as a reference on your CV can be a strategic move, especially when you’re stepping into the job market.

Your supervisor, having closely monitored your progress over the years, can provide a detailed account of your capabilities, work ethic, and contributions to your field.

For PhD graduates eyeing roles in academia or research-intensive industries , a supervisor’s endorsement is invaluable. Just like a manager or a CEO, they can speak to your ability to: 

• conduct rigorous research,
• manage complex projects, and
• contribute novel insights.

In fields like science and technology, where the intricacies of your work might not be immediately apparent to those outside your specialization, having someone who can articulate your contributions clearly can set you apart.

Your supervisor can also attest to your ability to:

• work effectively within a team,
• lead projects, and
• mentor juniors.

This perspective can reassure employers that you possess not just technical expertise but also the soft skills necessary for success in dynamic work settings.

However, it’s essential to ensure your supervisor can provide a positive and comprehensive reference. A lukewarm endorsement might raise red flags for potential employers.

Thus, before listing them, have a candid conversation with your supervisor about your job aspirations and the qualities you’d like them to highlight.

This preparation ensures they are ready to portray you in the best light when contacted, making your transition from academia to industry smoother.

It Is A Strength To Be A PhD Graduate In Your CV

In most cases, a PhD does hold significant weight as work experience, especially in roles where specialized knowledge and research skills are paramount.

The journey of obtaining a PhD equips candidates with a unique blend of analytical, project management, and problem-solving skills, highly valued across various sectors.

Ultimately, how a PhD is perceived varies by industry, making it essential for graduates to articulate the transferable skills and experiences gained during their doctoral studies to potential employers effectively.

Dr. JW Ong holds academic degrees, including a Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics from universities in New Zealand, Malaysia, and the UK. He started PhDPursuits.com as a way to share the experience he wish he would have had known before embarking on his PhD.

At home, abroad, working, interning?  Wherever you are this summer, contact OCS or make an appointment for a virtual advising session. We are available all summer! 

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Professional Experiences and Skill-Building for Ph.Ds and Postdocs

There are many ways to gain professional experience as a graduate student, including campus fellowships, internships and  leadership positions with one of the many student organizations. Professional experiences can serve a variety purposes, including exploring new industries, learning to apply transferable skills in new areas, learning entirely new skills, and more, and the type of experience that’s most beneficial to you will depend on your goals and background. This page provides information on a range of resources and opportunities, many of which are available directly through Yale.

Part-time Experiences

For many graduate students, it may not be realistic to take a full summer away from research and other obligations. The good news is that there is no shortage of opportunities to gain professional experience that don’t require an onerous time commitment and that can be just as valuable for your career journey as a traditional internship. Part-time work can be carried out during the academic year, and Yale offers opportunities covering many different job functions. Also consider participation in student organizations which builds skills in leadership and project management with a time commitment designed to fit into a graduate student’s schedule.

A number of organizations at Yale also organize opportunities for consulting work, which can range in time commitment from a single weekend to a yearlong project requiring a few hours of work per week. These projects can be a great way to experience working with a team, to learn basic business practices and to see how your skills translate to new areas. You may also consider micro-internships, which give you the chance to do short-term freelance work in your area of expertise.

Summer Internships

In the right circumstances, a full-time summer internship can be an ideal way to explore a career. Tech companies often offer internships explicitly aimed at graduate students, but many other opportunities are open to graduate students even if not advertised to them directly. A number of opportunities are available at Yale, including the President’s Public Service Fellowship.

Keep in mind that GSAS has specific regulations regarding full-time summer internships, as well as part-time work beyond 10 hours per week. If you are interested in these opportunities, you should review the relevant GSAS Academic Regulations in detail and complete the Request for Summer Internship Form  if applicable. International students should also consult with an OISS adviser before committing to a position with an outside organization or to any position at Yale beyond 19 hours/week.

Virtual Experiences

In busy periods when even part-time work can’t fit into your schedule, there are still opportunities to build skills and explore careers via virtual experiences and job simulations. These generally involve sample projects provided by real companies using realistic materials and datasets designed to simulate the workflow and process of a particular job function. Yale provides access to several sites that host these opportunities, as well as to resources such as LinkedIn Learning.

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Yale university virtual postdoc recruitment event  .

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Yale University’s Office for Postdoctoral Affairs is hosting its Virtual Postdoc Recruitment Event on February 15, 2024 from 1-4pm Eastern Time on Zoom and engages scholars interested in pursuing postdoctoral training at Yale University. Our goals are to support potential …

Internships for International Grad Students: A Step-By-Step Guide

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By Leah Collum, November 18, 2019 – see the original post on Inside Higher Ed

Those two little words are all but guaranteed to strike dread into the heart of practically every international graduate student job seeker. It’s a classic catch-22: …

PhD Transferable Skills

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Employers value many skills in addition to the technical knowledge in your discipline that you have honed while at Yale.  These skills are called “transferable” because they can be employed in a range of employer settings. The skills most cited …

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Listed is just a sample of the many opportunities part-time and internship opportunities open to graduate students. Be sure to read our advice on finding internships  and also on creating your own opportunity with an employer. For additional support, meet with an OCS adviser.

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How to include your PhD experience on a CV

There is life after a PhD , and you will need to transition from being a research student to either a post-doctoral academic role or to a job in industry. See how to include your PhD experience on your CV.

The journey to achieving a PhD can be an intense, challenging, and exciting journey. Achieving such a high qualification after intensive and in-depth research should be extremely rewarding and something that you are proud of throughout your life. Being recognised as a Doctor and an expert in your specific field is very impressive to employers.

The ability to call yourself a Doctor at the end of it and be considered an expert in your field is a great achievement, one that you should be proud of.

If you make an application for your similar area of research, it is worth noting to go into depth as regards the topic, data analysis and results.

However, if the job for which you are applying is not entirely linked to the PhD research, it is best to list your PhD experience in your CV’s academic background section. It is worth showcasing your skills and capabilities attained by your PhD study in other areas of your CV.

While listing a PhD experience enhances your job application, it is vital to carefully analyse the job description. Recruiters examine CVs to find the relevant information and will be able to envisage your compatibility with the specific job role and responsibilities.

Benefits of Including a PhD in a job application:

There are numerous benefits of possessing a PhD  when it comes to the world of work.

• You gain problem-solving and presentation skills
• You attempt various techniques and trials which build up your resilience
• Your knowledge and expertise may entitle you to an increased salary or job role
• You may be able to cope better with criticism
• You can share new findings, theories and/or innovations
• You have experience working independently and, in a team
• Achieving a PhD will demonstrate resilience, determination, hard work, passion, effective time management and a plethora of sought-after skills

General Tips

If you are seeking a career in industry or prefer to remain in academia here are some general tips that will help all PhD graduates write a job-winning CV:

• Concisely outline your PhD research and list the discipline
• List the stage you are currently at with your PhD, such as thesis submitted, VIVA pending or completed
• Ensure you detail all academic qualifications, including any A-Level, BTEC or professional qualifications you have attained
• List publications, poster presentations or conference details you have been published in or have attended. This applies more to an academic CV than an industry CV
• List any techniques or technologies you have used within your PhD that are relevant to the role you are applying for
• Ensure you list your academic qualifications in reverse chronological order. Your PhD should be at the top of the list

Academic CV

If you are seeking a postdoc opportunity in academia, the structure of your CV will be somewhat different from that of a conventional CV. However, there are some similarities, such as:

• Name and contact details – always make sure that your name, and a contact number, email or LinkedIn profile link is at the top of your CV
• Education – when listing your PhD be sure you list the title, aim, methodologies and results concisely
• Work experience – including part-time work and any relevant volunteering you may have done
• Skills – for example, lab techniques, or other specialist skills you may have attained during your PhD study or other work
• Interests and achievements – this section should be for your extra-curricular activities
• References – you can either list two references or you can opt to write ‘references available on request’

A CV for a PhD graduate should be somewhere between 2-4 pages long, depending on how many publications you have been published in and the number of conference presentations you have completed.

Achieving a PhD will allow you to be equipped with a plethora of skills and capabilities.  Depending on your experience and the job you are applying for, you may wish to structure your CV in a way that classifies related job roles or skills together. For example, experience in:

• Administration

CV for industry

If you are seeking a job opportunity outside of academia, you will need to create a more conventional CV which should be short and to the point. Keep your CV to a maximum of two pages, always using reverse chronological order for work experience and education. The following should be included:

• Name and contact details
• Education – give your PhD at least a brief paragraph explaining what your PhD the specialism, any special techniques used, and, any transferrable skills that may be beneficial for the role you are applying for.
• Work experience – when listing your work experience, you can opt to use the reverse chronological order method or you can group your experience into themes, such as technical/scientific experience, leadership experience and industry experience
• Skills – this can include all the significant skills you have attained through your working life, not only in your academic career.
• Achievements – both extracurricular and academic achievements
• Interests – this should focus on your extracurricular activities
• References – you can either list two references or opt to write ‘references on request’.

As your most recent qualification is your PhD, it is vital to ensure it takes pride of place. However, it is important to keep it clear and concise. Present a summary of your research in a paragraph or in bullet points and include any significant subject knowledge, or innovative techniques you may have used in your study. Remember to also outline impressive achievements and outcomes clearly.

Related article:

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Student Voices

Coming to HLS with a Ph.D.

There are many paths to law school. Increasingly, people choose to take a year or two off before pursuing their law degree. Many choose to use those years to gain work experience in banking or consulting, others work for non-profits or in public service roles . . . and some spend six years earning a Ph.D. in the humanities.

When my classmates, teachers, and law firm recruiters find out how I spent my time after undergrad, they often quickly ask why I “switched” to law after developing an expertise in Italian Literature. For me, coming to law school was not a sharp left turn. I had always planned on coming to law school. But when offered the opportunity to study literature I jumped at the chance. While in grad school, I ended up writing large portions of my dissertation about legal theory. In law school, I have many classmates with similar trajectories who have made a new intellectual home at HLS, drawing on their previous graduate education to inform how they think about the law.

Whether you see a close connection between your graduate studies and law school or not, don’t forget that the many skills that graduate school education provides are virtues in their own right—not to mention valuable tools that will serve you well in law school and in legal practice. While interviewing at law firms, I was nervous that hiring partners would view my academic trajectory with skepticism. I found, however, that most understood the value of having spent several years learning how to read carefully, write well, and research rigorously. At my position as a summer associate, many of my favorite days of work felt just like my favorite days of my Ph.D. program, working steadily to answer research questions and discussing my progress with my colleagues, all while feeling the pleasure of helping clients solve problems.

Kyle Skinner is a 2L from Jonesboro, GA, and is a first-generation student who graduated from Yale with both his B.A. and Ph.D. in Italian literature. Kyle is a member of the Board of Student Advisers, lead outside article editor for the Harvard Civil-Rights Civil-Liberties Law Review, a student attorney with the Prison Legal Assistance Program, and a policy editor on the Harvard Law & Policy Review. He is a mediocre cellist, has an unhealthy obsession with iced coffee, and has a collection of banned children’s books.

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The PhD student experience – What is it really like for PhDs?

Are you curious about what it’s really like to be a PhD student, navigating the world of academia and research?

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the lesser-known aspects of the PhD journey, from the profound impact of your supervisor to the competitive environment you’ll face.

Discover the truth about the importance of publishing papers and the realities of funding and job security in academia.

We’ll also give you a glimpse into the daily life of a PhD student, and explore the highs and lows of this challenging yet rewarding experience.

So, buckle up and join us as we uncover the secrets of the PhD student experience that no one else will tell you!

The little known-facts that you need to know about the PhD experience,

This is what no one else will tell you!

What does the daily life of a PhD student look like?

Embarking on a PhD journey can be a thrilling yet demanding experience, as a doctoral student is constantly immersed in:

• academic responsibilities,
• and professional development.

From the early morning, the life of a PhD student begins with checking emails, planning the day, and setting priorities.

A typical day usually involves conducting experiments or research in the laboratory, analyzing data, and reading scientific literature to stay up-to-date with their field.

PhD students often participate in regular meetings with their supervisors, who provide guidance and advice on their research projects.

These meetings are crucial for maintaining momentum and ensuring a productive working relationship.

A typical daily schedule for a PhD student might look like this:

7:00 AM – Wake up, morning routine, breakfast

7:45 AM – Check emails, plan the day, and set priorities

8:30 AM – Arrive at the laboratory, set up experiments or research tasks

9:30 AM – Attend a class or seminar (if applicable)

11:00 AM – Conduct experiments or research in the laboratory

12:30 PM – Lunch break, socialize with fellow graduate students

1:30 PM – Analyze data and read scientific literature relevant to the research project

3:00 PM – Meeting with supervisor to discuss research progress and receive guidance

4:30 PM – Continue working on experiments, data analysis, or literature review

6:00 PM – Dinner break

8:00 PM – Draft or edit thesis, work on conference presentations or publications

10:00 PM – Wind down and engage in a hobby or leisure activity for mental health and work-life balance

11:00 PM – Bedtime routine, sleep

In addition to their primary research, many PhD students assist and mentor undergraduate students, contributing to a diverse and dynamic academic community.

Balancing the demands of coursework, research projects, and administrative responsibilities can make for long working hours, which is why it’s important for doctoral students to maintain their mental health and work-life balance.

Attending conferences, participating in social events, and engaging in professional development opportunities are important aspects of the PhD experience.

Given the commitment and dedication required, full-time PhD students often rely on funded positions to support their education and living expenses.

Despite the inherent difficulties, the experience equips students with a range of new skills and expertise, setting them on a path to contribute significantly to academia and the world beyond.

How stressful is being a PhD student?

Being a PhD student can be quite stressful due to the unique challenges and demands of the program.

It varies from person to person and the supervisor will have a huge impact on how stressful a PhD will be for a student.

Here is a case study of the highs and lows of a PhD from a PhDs student’s perspective:

This PhD student experienced frustration with experiments not working or yielding results, leading to feelings of imposter syndrome and demotivation. A lack of progress was a significant source of stress during this time, as well as comparing oneself to peers who seemed to be achieving more success.

However, there were also numerous highlights throughout the PhD experience. Attending conferences and presenting research offered opportunities to gain feedback, collaborate with others, and even travel. Engaging in scientific discussions and exploring the significance of one’s work provided a sense of purpose and satisfaction.

Furthermore, working with cutting-edge equipment, such as advanced microscopes, allowed the student to appreciate the unique and privileged nature of their research.

The pressure to produce significant contributions to one’s field and the uncertainty of achieving results within a limited time frame can induce anxiety.

For instance, many students find themselves constantly juggling various responsibilities, such as conducting experiments, analysing data, attending meetings with their supervisor, and writing their thesis or papers.

Aside from academic pressure, managing work-life balance can be difficult as well. It’s not uncommon for PhD students to work long hours, often sacrificing personal time and relationships.

The lack of a structured schedule and the need for self-motivation can add to the stress and the competitive environment in academia and the constant pursuit of funding can further exacerbate stress levels.

PhD student workloads and holidays

The life of a PhD student is often characterized by heavy workloads and limited opportunities for holidays.

In a typical PhD program, students juggle numerous responsibilities, including research projects, coursework, and professional development activities, such as attending conferences and training.

This is particularly true for funded PhD students, who are expected to adhere to strict timelines set by their supervisors and the university’s academic calendar.

In the science field, the workload can be even more demanding due to the nature of research, which often involves conducting experiments that can take months or years to complete.

This commitment means that even during holidays, PhD students may feel the need to work in order to meet deadlines, leading to burnout and stress.

Later Stage PhD ( Doctorate Candidates )

When PhD students reach the later stages of their doctorate program, they become PhDs preparing to complete their research project and thesis.

This stage comes with an intense academic workload, with high demand for researcher-level skills and scientific knowledge.

A typical day for a PhD at this stage involves conducting research, analysing data, and editing their findings to complete their thesis.

In my experience it is WRITING, WRITING and more WRITING…with a touch of editing.

There are deadlines to meet, and students may face pressure, but the reward of completing a doctorate degree is worth it.

At this point, a PhD is expected to demonstrate their ability to conduct independent research and contribute to their field of study.

The latter stages of the doctorate program offer a rigorous and rewarding challenge for students who want to pursue a career in science, education, and research.

Wrapping up – PhD and Doctoral Student experience

The PhD student experience is a complex and multifaceted journey that offers a unique blend of challenges and triumphs.

As we have explored in this blog, the road to obtaining a PhD is filled with personal growth, professional development, and numerous hurdles to overcome.

But, for those who persevere, the rewards can be immense, leading to a sense of accomplishment, increased expertise, and the potential to make a significant impact in their chosen field.

In navigating this adventure, it is essential for PhD students to maintain a healthy work-life balance and develop strong support networks to help them manage stress and maintain motivation.

The journey may be demanding, but with the right mindset and guidance, the experience can be truly transformative.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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RIT graduate pursues Ph.D. across time zones

Nastaran Nagshineh, center, defended her Ph.D. thesis at RIT in April. Faculty from RIT’s Rochester and Dubai campuses served on her thesis committee and include, from left to right, Kathleen Lamkin-Kennard, Steven Weinstein, Nathaniel Barlow, and David Kofke (a professor at the University at Buffalo). Mohamed Samaha participated remotely and appears on the video screen behind the group and alongside Nagshineh’s picture.

Nastaran Nagshineh is one of the first Ph.D. candidates to bridge RIT’s Rochester and Dubai campuses. Her accomplishment creates a path for future students at the university’s international campuses.

Nagshineh completed her Ph.D. in mathematical modeling while working full time as a mathematics lecturer at RIT Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, teaching as many as five classes a semester. She described her Ph.D. journey as “an exercise in perseverance” due to competing demands and long days. Rochester is eight hours behind Dubai, and the time difference meant many late-night classes and meetings.

“I saw this collaboration as an opportunity, rather than as a challenge, because my primary adviser, Dr. Steven Weinstein (RIT professor of chemical engineering), and my co-adviser, Dr. Mohamed Samaha (RIT Dubai associate professor of mechanical engineering), both have the same area of research interest,” she said. “They both worked toward my success.”

Nagshineh is one of 67 RIT Ph.D. students who defended their thesis this academic year and who will earn their doctorate. RIT awarded 63 Ph.D. degrees in 2023.

In 2020-2021, RIT’s Graduate School met and surpassed the university’s goal of conferring 50 Ph.D. degrees during an academic year. That number will continue to grow as students cycle through the seven new Ph.D. programs that RIT has added since 2017, said Diane Slusarski , dean of RIT’s Graduate School.

Meeting these goals puts RIT on a path toward achieving an “R1,” or research-intensive designation, from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Learning. RIT is currently ranked as an R2 institution . Many factors go into changing a university’s status, including research investment and maintaining a three-year average of 70 Ph.D. degrees awarded per year, according to Slusarski.

“We have met the goals of the strategic plan, and now we look forward to contributing to the research innovation in the future,” Slusarski said. “We want to help the new programs thrive and win national research awards.”

RIT’s emphasis on high-level research is seen in Nagshineh’s Ph.D. work. She applies mathematical modeling to the field of fluid dynamics. Her research has been published in top-tier journals and has gained notice, said Weinstein, her thesis adviser.

Weinstein describes Nagshineh’s accomplishments as “a testament to a fantastic work ethic and commitment” and is inspirational to younger students at Rochester and Dubai.

“The collaboration between RIT Dubai/Rochester has continued,” he said. “Another paper was submitted a few weeks ago with Mohamed Samaha and Nate Barlow (RIT associate professor in the School of Mathematics and Statistics) as co-authors, as well as Cade Reinberger, a younger Ph.D. student in my research group.”

Mathematical modeling is one of RIT’s newer Ph.D. degree programs, and Nagshineh is among its earliest graduates. The program has doubled in size since it began accepting students in 2017, Slusarski said. This past fall, the mathematical modeling program had 35 students, with two graduating this year.

Altogether, RIT has 13 Ph.D. degree programs currently enrolling 438 students, with computing and information sciences accounting for the largest with 117 students. RIT’s other Ph.D. programs include astrophysical sciences and technology , biomedical and chemical engineering , business administration , color science , electrical and computer engineering, imaging science , mechanical and industrial engineering , microsystems engineering , and sustainability .

New programs in cognitive science and physics will launch in the fall.

The growth in RIT graduate education—with more than 3,000 master’s and doctoral students—reflects a demographic change in the student population, Slusarski said. “We have a higher percentage of women in the graduate programs than we have for RIT undergraduate programs.”

RIT’s graduate programs enroll 42 percent women, according to Christie Leone , assistant dean for the Graduate School.

Nagshineh, who also holds an MS in electrical engineering from RIT Dubai, welcomes her role as a mentor to other women students on both campuses.

“As a young woman in an Arabic country, the power of women is often underestimated and undervalued, and I hope to serve as a role model to female students, especially those that question their path,” Nagshineh said.

She plans to continue in her career as a professor and a researcher. “I would like to pursue a research program where I can advise my own students and teach them more deeply.”

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Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science

• Graduate Internship Program 2025

Engineering Co-operative Education Office (ECEO) and Engineering Graduate Office (EGO) offer the Graduate Internship Program (GIP) to provide graduate students in the participating professional programs an opportunity to gain valuable work experience through an full-time, paid internship of eight months with a single employer. Admission to it is limited, competitive, selective and not mandatory. All details pertaining to the GIP for any future cohort(s) are subject to annual review, and ECEO and EGO maintain the rights of any changes to it in accordance with regulations.

This Q&A is for the 2025 Graduate Internship Program (GIP).

1) Is this a co-op program?

• Not to be confused with the mandatory co-op education program undertaken by undergraduate Engineering students at Memorial, this Graduate Internship Program (GIP) is optional and offers limited, competitive, and selective admissions to eligible graduate students who are nominated to it.

2) Which academic programs are participating in the GIP and who are eligible for it?

• Oil and Gas Engineering;
• Environmental Systems Engineering and Management;
• Safety and Risk Engineering Management;
• Energy Systems Engineering; and
• Computer Engineering
• Completion of at least five program courses for students who started their program in Fall 2023; or
• Completion of at least three program courses if they started their program in Winter 2024.
• Twenty-five eligible students (five from each participating program) will be nominated and invited for opt-in to the 2025 cohort. They will have to submit the opt-in request form to proceed.

3) When does the 2025 Graduate Internship Program (GIP) start and how long is it for?

• It will begin in Spring 2024 semester to prepare students who have opted in for an eight-month full time internship that lasts through Winter 2025 and Spring 2025.

4) Can you increase the number of students invited to opt-in to more than twenty-five?

• The GIP is subject to yearly review before we introduce it more widely.

5) I am a thesis-based (MEng/PhD) Engineering student. Can I participate?

• No. You are in a research-intensive program; you should focus on conducting and completing research funded by your supervisor(s).

6) I am currently studying in a professional engineering program. Why is it not listed as one of the participating programs above?

• The GIP is not a faculty-wide program. Each academic program makes its own decision to offer what they deem the best program experience to its students. Only the five academic programs listed above are currently participating in GIP.

7) I am a graduate student in one of the participating programs. Do I have to apply to be considered for the GIP? How can I express interest in it?

• You do not have to apply or express interest. The EGO will invite top five eligible students from each participating programs for opt-in to the 2025 cohort of GIP.

8)  What is the criteria used for a student to be nominated and invited for an opt-in to the GIP?

• The primary criteria is academic performance. Five eligible students with the highest cumulative average by the end of Winter 2024 semester will be invited by the EGO to opt-in to the GIP.  If there are two students with the same cumulative average, the student who completed more program courses will be selected between them. The decision of the nominations is final.

9) When can I expect to find out if I am invited to opt-in?

• You will be notified by the EGO via email by the first two weeks of classes in Spring 2024 semester at the latest. You do not have to send follow-up emails.

  10)  I am invited to opt-in. What can I expect if I submit the opt-in request form?

  11)  Am I guaranteed an internship if I am opting into the GIP?

• You have to first pass the pre-screening set by the ECEO then secure an internship placement through the job competition hosted by the ECEO (with help and guidance from EGO and ECEO). Internship placement is not guaranteed as a significant part of the employer selection process depends on relevant experience and the quality of the application (including resume, cover letter and an interview).

12)  What if I am opting into the GIP but I do not pass the pre-screening or secure an internship placement?

• You will continue with taking and completing your program courses related to your degree as normal.

13)  Will there be an additional fee to participate in the GIP?

• Yes, students are expected to pay for the additional fee associated with participating in the GIP.

14)  How much would a student be paid for an internship?

• Students in the undergraduate engineering program normally earn approximately $2,000 to $4,000 per month. For more details, please refer to the university student employment salary page:  https://www.mun.ca/hr/careers/student-and-other-positions/student-employment-rates/

15)  Will I receive credit hours for the internship?

16)  I am invited to opt in but I have other questions to ask but these questions are not covered in this Q&A.

• EGO and ECEO will meet with you and provide guidelines to help prepare you for the Graduate Internship Program (GIP).

17)  I have some questions and/or feedback. Who can I contact?

• Please email  [email protected] . 
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Related Content

The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

Australia announces changes to its temporary graduate visa programs.

The Australian Government has announced significant changes to the Temporary Graduate visa programs starting July 1, 2024, realigning visa streams with study levels. Key benefits include work opportunities, family inclusion, and extended stays for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders. Age limits and qualification requirements will be adjusted.

• Stay: Holders of the Temporary Graduate visa can stay in Australia after completing their studies, allowing them to explore further opportunities or gain work experience in the country.
• Include Family: Applicants can include family members, such as partners, children, or their partner's children, in their visa application. However, family members must meet health and character requirements as per the visa regulations.
• Work: One of the significant advantages of the Temporary Graduate visa is the ability to work unrestricted hours in any sector. This provides graduates with the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in their field of study or explore other career pathways while residing in Australia.

Here's a breakdown of the changes to Australia's Temporary Graduate visa programs.

• Age Eligibility: The maximum age limit for applicants applying under the Post-Vocational Education Work stream will be reduced to 35 years or younger.
• Eligibility for Hong Kong and British National Overseas Passport Holders: Despite the age reduction, individuals holding Hong Kong or British National Overseas passports will remain eligible for this stream if they are under the age of 50.
• Alternative Visa Options: Applicants who no longer meet the age requirements for the Post-Vocational Education Work stream may still have options available through other visa pathways. They are encouraged to explore these alternatives to continue their stay in Australia.
• Qualification Requirements: To be eligible for the Post-Vocational Education Work stream, applicants must hold an associate degree, diploma, or trade qualification closely related to their nominated occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Those with degree-level qualifications or higher will no longer qualify for this stream and must apply through the Post-Higher Education Work stream .
• Duration of Stay: Successful applicants under the Post-Vocational Education Work stream may continue to stay in Australia for up to 18 months.
• Extended Stay for Passport Holders: Hong Kong or British National Overseas passport holders may have the option to extend their stay for up to 5 years, providing them with an extended period to live and work in Australia.

Australia tightens student visa rules, increases financial requirement as migration surges

• Age Eligibility: The maximum age limit for applicants applying under the Post-Higher Education Work stream will be lowered to 35 years or younger.
• Eligibility for Hong Kong and British National Overseas Passport Holders: Despite the age adjustment, individuals holding Hong Kong or British National Overseas passports will remain eligible for this stream if they are under the age of 50.
• Alternative Visa Options: Applicants who no longer meet the age criteria for the Post-Higher Education Work stream may still qualify for other visa options. They are advised to explore these alternatives to extend their stay in Australia.
• Termination of the 'Select Degree' Extension: The 'select degree' extension, which allowed for an additional two years of stay, will no longer be available under this stream.
• Bachelor's degree (including honours): Up to 2 years
• Masters (coursework and extended): Up to 2 years
• Masters (research) and doctoral degree (PhD): Up to 3 years
• Extended Stay for Passport Holders: Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders may have the option to extend their stay for up to 5 years, providing them with an extended period to reside and work in Australia.
• Bachelor's degree (with first-class honours in STEM, including ICT): Up to 3 years
• Masters (coursework, extended, and research): Up to 3 years
• Doctoral degrees (PhD): Up to 4 years

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Knauss Fellowship

Ocean, coastal and Great Lakes resource management experience for graduate students

The Sea Grant Knauss Fellowship provides a unique educational and professional experience to graduate students who have an interest in ocean, coastal and Great Lakes resources and in the national policy decisions affecting those resources. The Fellowship, named after one of Sea Grant’s founders and former NOAA Administrator John A. Knauss, matches highly qualified graduate students with “hosts” in the legislative and executive branch of government located in the Washington, D.C. area, for a one-year paid fellowship.

The Knauss Fellowship application period is open! Learn more here .

Learn more about the knauss fellowship, prospective fellows.

Apply for a Knauss Fellowship through the Sea Grant program in your state.

Selected Finalists & Current Fellows

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Prospective Hosts

Interested in hosting a Knauss fellow in 2025? Learn more here!

Host Offices

Knauss Host Offices provide opportunities for involvement in substantive issues that support the fellows’ goals.

Knauss Finalists Class of 2024

Scroll through the gallery to check out the finalists in the upcoming class and their placements or view them here .

Want to hear from our current and former fellows about their firsthand experiences?

Check out the Knauss Blog, our alumni videos and alumni cards, and follow along with their journeys on social media using #Knauss!

An introduction to the Marine Mammal Commission: Jackie Shaff

From DC to Antarctica: Gina Selig

Check out this new video from 2023 fellow Gina Selig discussing her work with the Antarctic Treaties Commission and her upcoming trip to Antarctica.

Reelin’ in the Years

Sea Grant Student Opportunities 2018

The Knauss Legislative Fellowship: Exciting. Educational. Career-Building.

John a. knauss marine policy fellowship program.

*Numbers are approximate and based on available data.

Years of Success

FELLOWS PLACED IN FEDERAL AND CONGRESSIONAL OFFICES

OF FELLOWSHIP ALUMNI WORK FOR THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT*

OFFICES HAVE HOSTED FELLOWS IN THE LAST THREE YEARS*

Knauss Fellowship News

Sea Grant Announces the 2024 Class of the John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship

Sea Grant Announces 2023 Finalists for the John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship Program

Sea Grant Announces 2022 Finalists for the John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship Program