Achieving Excellence in Grad School: Tips from Dr. Mohamed Mkaouer

Graduate school is a unique and deeply transformative journey. As Dr. Christopher Lewis outlines in this week's Victor's in Grad School podcast, every student travels their own path toward advanced degrees, facing distinct challenges and triumphs along the way. This episode features Dr. Mohamed Mkaouer, an Associate Professor and Director of the Masters in Software Engineering program at the University of Michigan Flint's College of Innovation and Technology, who shares his insightful experiences and suggestions for finding success in graduate school.

Finding Your True Passion

The Decision to Pursue a Master's Degree

When Dr. Mkaouer completed his bachelor’s degree at the Universite de Tunis, he was at a crossroads. Instead of jumping straight into the professional world, he chose to pursue a master’s degree. As he reflects, finding a career that you genuinely enjoy is crucial. At that point, he didn't know exactly what he wanted to do, so he decided to continue his education to gather more experience and skills, which would later guide him in making more informed career choices.

Emphasizing Research and Continuous Learning

A recurring theme in Dr. Mkaouer’s journey was his interest in research. As he transitioned from his master’s to his PhD, he found a passion for research, particularly in software engineering. His thirst for knowledge and his desire to solve complex problems led him to further his education in the United States, where he continued his studies at the Missouri University of Science and Technology and later, the University of Michigan Dearborn. For students contemplating this path, Dr. Mkaouer insists on the importance of diving deep into research areas that ignite your curiosity and passion.

Charting a Course in PhD Studies

The Role of Mentorship

One of the significant points Dr. Mkaouer discusses is the importance of a solid mentor-mentee relationship during PhD studies. When his advisor moved to another institution, Dr. Mkaouer chose to follow. He stresses that an academic advisor's vision should align with your own, serving as a consistent support system throughout the demanding PhD journey.

Navigating Obstacles

PhD studies are ripe with challenges—from rigorous academic requirements to unexpected changes, like a mentor leaving. Dr. Mkaouer advises students to be adaptable and remain focused on their long-term goals. He also emphasizes the significance of building a robust support network of like-minded peers who can provide both technical and emotional support.

Preparing for Professional Success

Beyond Grades: Developing Skills

Dr. Mkaouer emphasizes that the goal of a graduate degree is not simply to get good grades but to develop a unique skill set that separates you from others in a competitive job market. He recalls his struggles and eventual success with mastering algorithms, a crucial skill for his career. His consistent effort and extra work beyond the standard curriculum were what truly set him apart.

Utilizing Resources and Mentorship

Graduate programs offer numerous resources and mentorship opportunities, which students should fully utilize. Dr. Mkaouer mentions that many students are unaware of the extensive support available