368: Identifying Your Advisor Needs as a Graduate Student

In this episode of the Grad School Femtoring Podcast, I walk you through how to identify your advisor needs as a graduate student, whether you are choosing an advisor in your first year or realizing you need to make a change. This episode is inspired by patterns I see across my clients, where many students feel pressure to settle for less support than they need due to what has been normalized in academia.

I break down what it actually looks like to be supported in graduate school by outlining both foundational advisor needs and additional forms of support that can strengthen your experience and long-term career trajectory. I also share how these needs directly impact your ability to make progress, maintain momentum, and complete your program.

In this episode, you will learn:

• Why many graduate students feel pressured to settle for neglectful advising
• The six foundational advisor needs that support progress and completion
• How structure, communication, and feedback shape your ability to move forward
• The role of mentorship, resources, and flexibility in long-term success
• How power dynamics and psychological safety impact advising relationships
• Specific questions you can ask advisors and graduate students to assess fit and identify red flags

Work with me

• You can learn more about my 1:1 coaching programs here: https://gradschoolfemtoring.com/coaching/
• And join the Grad Empowerment Coaching Circle, open through April 17, here: https://gradschoolfemtoring.com/group-coaching/

Free resource

• Download your Grad School Femtoring Resource Kit: https://gradschoolfemtoring.com/kit/

Explore more

• Listen to more episodes on the grad school hidden curriculum: https://gradschoolfemtoring.com/podcast_catergory/grad-school-hidden-curriculum/
• Support the podcast with a one-time or monthly donation: https://donate.stripe.com/bJedR8dGRcs6ewGdwq38401
• Access transcripts and additional resources: https://gradschoolfemtoring.com/podcast/

Audio and transcript edited by Yessi Sanchez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yessisanchez/

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The Grad School Femtoring Podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy or other professional services.

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