Great Dane Grad Blog

Doctoral student being hooded by advisor.
Mentorship Matters: Building Meaningful Academic Relationships
Sky is a graduate of the Climate Science PhD program at UAlbany. In this blog, she discusses the many advantages of seeking out supportive mentors in graduate school, tips to find them, as well as the benefits of becoming a mentor to others.
A woman stands next to a research poster titled "The Original Biosensor Meets Environmental Informatics" at a science event, presenting findings on round goby detection with conservation dogs.
Why Interdisciplinary Perspectives Matter in Research
In this blog, a second-year doctoral student, Katie Baronowski, shares how her background in psychology contributes to discussions alongside peers in data analytics, public policy, emergency management, and technology. Together, these perspectives deepen understanding and lead to more innovative, resilient solutions.
Six people stand in a row beneath the GrantsMate logo with the tagline "AI Partner in Research Success" on a plain white background.
From RISE to Startup: How Our Team Launched GrantsMate at UAlbany
Meet the team behind GrantsMate — an AI-powered platform developed by UAlbany alumni to help researchers discover funding opportunities and collaborators faster. Through the RISE program at University at Albany, this interdisciplinary team transformed an idea into a growing startup — combining expertise across public administration, sociology, computer science, and business.
Three women stand smiling indoors by large windows. The first wears a hijab and brown outfit, the second a black and white dress, and the third a floral top and white pants. The atmosphere is friendly and bright.
Initiatives for Women at UAlbany
In this blog, our doctoral students share how IFW funding enabled them to present research, accelerate data collection, gain technical training, and expand their professional networks — illustrating the broader impact of investing in women and underrepresented voices in academia.
Student is wearing cap and gown, waving at the audience
Lessons, Leadership, and Launching a Career After the MBA
From case studies and team projects to mentorship from faculty, the MBA program helped Travis transition confidently from the classroom to a professional environment focused on impact and student engagement.
Student standing next to her presentation board
Digital Tools for Graduate Student: Tech Stack for Success
In this blog, Information Science Ph.D. student Dwi Puspita Sari shares how digital tools support her work as both a doctoral researcher and research assistant — enhancing efficiency, organization, and qualitative analysis workflows
Two professionals, one woman and one man, pose together in formal business attire against a dark studio background.
Thriving in UAlbany’s Environmental and Sustainable Engineering Program
Wyne Ziocha and Syed Muhammad Arsh Hussain share their experiences in the Environmental & Sustainable Engineering program at the College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering at UAlbany — from navigating the application process to engaging in coursework that connects engineering, sustainability, public policy, and real-world impact.
Two people interact at a busy indoor event table, exchanging papers, with informational materials and other attendees visible in the background.
Setting the Record Straight - 10 Common Misconceptions about Graduate School
From admissions and compensation to work-life balance and career growth, Sky Hooler provides valuable insight for professionals and students considering advanced study.