This program is not currently scheduled.
However, any resources like slides and recordings from this event would be listed under Materials at the bottom of this page. Announcements about when this program is offered next will be emailed from "UCSF Office of Career and Professional Development."
Overview
Most of us find it daunting to reach out to a stranger; but most potential mentors start as people you don’t know yet. Whether you’re choosing a thesis lab, seeking research collaborators, exploring careers, or applying for jobs, “coffee chats” (also known as “informational interviews”) are an essential way to find mentors and opportunities.
Fortunately, there’s a straightforward protocol you can follow. We’ll walk you through how to contact people, ask to talk, and use a 30-minute conversation as the foundation for future mentorship and opportunities. We’ll provide templates, examples, and an opportunity to troubleshoot your first “invitation to connect.” You’ll also hear from a student leader about their experience with some common challenges of conducting coffee chats.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:
- Describe the protocol for setting up a coffee chat with a potential mentor
- Write an “invitation to connect” that is likely to get a positive response
- Prepare questions for an informational interview
- Identify steps you can take to ensure a productive conversation
Format
This workshop will take place on Zoom. You'll be able to reflect, write, and ask questions during the session. Anonymous sharing will take place using PollEverywhere.
Speaker
Ray Care, PhD - Program Director, Career & Professional Development for PhDs, Office of Career and Professional Development