Thread by @ViralCarmichael

How I chose the lab where I did my PhD, a thread:

In my biomedical sciences program, I had to rotate through 4 separate labs (it’s a lot, I know). 1/n

#AcademicChatter #phdchat

When I started grad school, I was certain I wanted to join a virology lab, so 3/4 of my rotations were in molecular virology labs. I was having fun, but was overwhelmed with classes and imposter syndrome. 2/n

Halfway through my last rotation, I found myself staring in disbelief at a positive pregnancy test. (Sidebar: Birth control is only 99% effective when taken correctly, y’all) This was 8 months into a PhD program and I was terrified. 3/n

But in that moment, it became incredibly clear which lab I should join. Only one of the PIs I rotated with had a lab full of scientists who seemed to really like their work and also have lives outside of lab. 4/n

So after my last rotation finished and I passed my quals (morning sickness and all), I asked this PI if I could join his lab. He said yes, he’d be happy to train/mentor me. 5/n

When I went to sign the paperwork with him to officially join his lab, I awkwardly closed his office door (so the rest of the lab couldn’t hear) and told him I was 12 weeks pregnant. It was scary. At that point, only my spouse, bestie, and parents knew. 6/n

And you know he said? I quote, verbatim: “Congrats! How wonderful!”

(Long pause as he noted my scared, unsure face)

PI: “You know, my best trainees have been parents. You’re gonna be just fine. Trust me.”
7/n

I joined that lab. It was hands down the best decision I made in grad school. My PI supported and mentored me through 6 years, 2 pregnancies, and parenthood.

So my advice in choosing a PhD lab would be look for a mentor who wants you to have a life. 8/n #WomenInSTEM #phdchat

And cause I can’t thread properly:
I joined that lab. It was hands down the best decision I made in grad school. My PI supported & mentored me through 6 years, 2 pregnancies, & parenthood.

So my advice in choosing a PhD lab would be look for a mentor who wants you to have a life