Advice to Prospective Students

"My advice to prospective students is two-fold: be organized and be proactive. The most challenging aspect of the program is balancing our busy lives (job and family obligations) with the rigors of a graduate program. For every class you should organize all of the readings with notes for future reference. You may need these resources when you take the comprehensive exams and/or when you are building your literature review for your dissertation. Take advantage of the university resources such as the Graduate College’s or Alkek Library’s online workshop sessions. Some of these are very helpful in learning new software or techniques for research and writing. Plan early for your dissertation project. Whether it is coordinating through the school where you work or reaching out to an organization, you will need to establish the connections necessary for conducting research with their teachers or students. Finally, make the effort to get to know the other grad students in the program. While networking with other students is always a good idea for career purposes, it is even more important to have the social connection with others going through the same struggles as you. You are not alone and, as educators, we share a mission to lift each other up and offer support throughout this journey." - Lisa Elikan, Spring 2025 Graduate

“If I could give one piece of advice to anyone considering a Ph.D. in geography education, it would be to choose a topic that you genuinely care about. There will be long days, unexpected challenges, and moments when you question whether you'll ever reach the finish line. When that happens, your passion for your research will remind you of why you started. Be willing to listen, revise, and keep moving forward, even when the progress feels slow. Most importantly, enjoy the journey. It isn't always easy, but it is worth it. Earning the degree is an incredible accomplishment, but what means the most to me is knowing that my research has the potential to contribute to geography education and make a difference for future students and teachers. Looking back, I wouldn't change a thing.” - Heather  (Palma) Jones, Summer 2026 Graduate

“Based on my experience, I would advise prospective students to believe in themselves and take the leap. It is feasible to balance work and family commitments while also in the program, but it takes organization, time management, and also flexibility.  Things may not always go as planned, but if you stay on top of your courses and classwork, you will prevail.  Understand your dissertation research may also take a detour and that's okay, this is all part of the process.  Focus on your end goal, take care of yourself, and you can be successful.  I also recommend making friends with your cohort, having their support is instrumental, and it's nice to know you are not alone in this whole process. You will build some great relationships. Finally, take it one step at a time.  It can be daunting when you are first starting out, but the program is designed to scaffold and support you, as will the faculty and staff.  Before you know it, you too will be at graduation. A PhD in geography education will give you the ability to grow as a human and contribute to the field, ultimately making the world a better place." - Licia Paulus, Fall 2025 Graduate