Voices from the BOD

10 Traits of a Great Leader

10 Traits of a Great Leader

Having been a part of JYI since I was an undergraduate, I have found that many of my colleagues and now, mentees, have chosen to participate in JYI because they are looking for a leadership opportunity. We all want to be better leaders. While this is frequently noted as the goal of many of the activities we participate in, I have noticed that it has been more of a lip service than it is carried out in practice. We do not teach our students how to be leaders. 

10 Tips to Avoid Burnout

10 Tips to Avoid Burnout

Burnout amongst scientists and physicians is a silent epidemic.

Teenage and young adult suicide rides have continued to rise, and mental health issues are a pressing issue among undergraduate and high school studies. Our universities and workplaces have become a hunting ground for competition and bullying. Meanwhile, the amount of knowledge and skills required to succeed in the biomedical sciences have exponentiated. Coupled with an ever more difficult funding environment, training pathways and copious documentation for healthcare professionals, it becomes ever more important to address burnout for those in the biomedical field. I write about burnout not because I have the perfect solution to offer, but because it is a struggle I face every day.

Imposter Syndrome

Imposter Syndrome

Making the jump from undergraduate to graduate studies may inspire intense feelings of accomplishment, pride, happiness, and … imposterism?  Newly minted graduates who are stepping into higher degree programs often report feeling like an “imposter” in a sea of other graduate students who appear to be more intelligent, more qualified, and more capable of meeting all the requirements of a graduate degree.  Often, these students feel like they are a fraud, someone who does not belong in such a group of highly intelligent individuals, and that it is just a matter of time before other people realize this too.  These feelings are referred to as Imposter Syndrome, which affects both female and male graduate students.