Finding Support and Success in Grad School with Michelle Gordon-Releford

Graduate school is a unique journey that demands both resilience and strategic planning. In a recent episode of the Victors in Grad School" podcast, Michelle Gordon-Releford shared her personal experiences and insights on how to navigate the complexities of graduate education successfully. As a double master's degree holder from the University of Michigan Flint, Michelle’s journey offers invaluable lessons for prospective and current graduate students alike.

The Decision to Pursue Graduate Education

Michelle’s decision to pursue graduate education was influenced by a promise to a sorority sister who emphasized the importance of advanced degrees for career prospects. Initially uncertain about pursuing further education, Michelle finally decided that obtaining a graduate degree was the next logical step. This decision demonstrates the importance of mentorship and peer advice in shaping academic and career paths.

Choosing the Right Program and Institution

For Michelle, choosing the University of Michigan Flint was driven by practical considerations and the availability of strong support systems. She highlighted the importance of familial and community support while pursuing higher education. When selecting a graduate program, Michelle emphasized the need to research various programs and consider how they align with your career goals. Her pivot from psychology to health science education was motivated by her passion for community involvement and making tangible impacts.

Transitioning to Graduate School

Transitioning from undergraduate to graduate school poses unique challenges. Michelle stressed the importance of finding a "graduate school family" to help navigate these hurdles. Building a support system among your peers can provide both emotional and academic support. She recounted her own experiences of juggling graduate studies while managing her husband's cancer treatment, emphasizing the invaluable role her classmates and professors played in her success.

Building Relationships

One of the critical pieces of advice Michelle offered was to cultivate strong relationships with faculty members and peers. These relationships not only provide immediate support but can also turn into professional networks that benefit you long after graduation. Faculty members can become mentors and advisors, offering guidance and opportunities that you might not otherwise encounter.

Applying Graduate Education in the Professional World

Michelle’s diverse career experiences—as a community outreach manager and in other roles—showcase how a graduate degree can be applied in various professional contexts. Courses and experiences in her graduate program heightened her awareness about community disparities and prepared her to address these issues effectively. Her degree gave her the skills to conduct meaningful community engagement and to be an advocate for equity.

Tips for Prospective Graduate Students

Michelle concluded with actionable tips for prospective graduate students. She emphasized the importance of utilizing campus resources, particularly building a relationship with the library staff. Michelle also stressed the significance of maintaining open communication with family, friends, and professors. Their support can help alleviate some of the pressures of graduate school.

Michelle Gordon-Releford’s journey underscores the multifa