Mastering the Art of Uncomfortability: How to Network

This program is not currently scheduled

However, you can find resources like slides and recordings under Materials at the bottom of this page. To get announcements when this program is offered next, sign up to the OCPD listserv and be sure to open emails from "UCSF Office of Career and Professional Development"

Have you ever wondered how to feel more comfortable in uncomfortable situations (like a networking event or a conference) while navigating conversations with people who are very different from you? You’re not alone. Whether you’re talking to big dogs in your field, doing informational interviews, or meeting new lab members, situational networking skills can help you feel more at ease. And even better, some of those uncomfortable conversations might even turn into mentorship.

All UCSF grad students and postdocs are invited to join this workshop for some practical tips, as well as time to practice by meeting new people (there will also be snacks).

Event Format

  • Presentation on strategies to manage uncomfortability, and how to start/manage/close a networking conversation
  • Interactive workshops to practice these skills
  • Mixer/informal networking time

This will be an interactive in-person event, and will not be recorded. Resources will be shared with all registrants before and after the event; if you are unable to attend but would like to receive these resources, please email [email protected].

Speakers

  • Naledi Saul, MPM – Director, Office of Career and Professional Development
  • Jaysón Davidson – UCSF PhD Candidate, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacogenomics; OCPD Intern

Materials

Sponsored by Black Excellence in STEM (BE-STEM), Society for the Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) UCSF Chapter, Graduate and Postdoc Queer Alliance (GPQA), and UCSF Office of Career and Professional Development (OCPD)

This event occurs during Graduate Student Appreciation Week! Check out the full calendar of events.

A note about our virtual events: We would like to welcome you, as and where you are, to our virtual events. If there are times you just don’t want to be on camera, feel free to attend this event with your camera and mic off. If you prefer to switch on your camera and participate that’s great too. And if this event just won’t work for you please remember you can always make an appointment with us at any time. 

UCSF is committed to making its facilities, activities and events accessible. To request accommodations for this event, please contact Trish McGrath ([email protected]) at the Office of Career and Professional Development at least one week before the event.