Former Princeton Student Jalisha Braxton Class of 2016 Discusses Life After University
Jalisha Braxton, a third-year PhD student in psychology at the University of Chicago, is shedding light on the differences between undergraduate and graduate psychology experiences. Her journey from Princeton University to her current studies provides valuable insights for those considering a career in psychology.
Undergraduate Psychology Experience
During her time at Princeton, Braxton pursued a B.A. in psychology, which offered a broad foundation in psychological concepts. The B.A. curriculum included a variety of electives outside psychology, emphasizing humanities and social sciences, while the B.S. focused more on math, science, research methods, and analytics. Regardless of the degree, undergraduate psychology programmes cover foundational research skills, including learning statistics, research methods, and understanding broad psychological theories.
Graduate Psychology Experience (PhD level)
In contrast, graduate school, particularly at the PhD level, involves a much deeper specialization and original research. PhD programmes focus heavily on research, statistics, theory, and teaching. Students develop original research questions, complete dissertations, and engage in rigorous scientific inquiry. Compared to undergraduates, graduate students are expected to contribute new knowledge to the field, often receiving more funding through assistantships and fellowships.
The graduate experience is more self-driven, with an emphasis on independent research, publishing, and teaching responsibilities. Graduate education typically requires a longer and more intensive time commitment (4-7 years for a PhD) versus 4 years for undergraduate degrees. Master’s programmes offer more targeted training in subfields if not pursuing a doctorate, but the PhD is the definitive research and clinical psychologist’s degree.
Professional Outlook and Skill Development
Undergraduates gain knowledge and basic research skills, but many professional psychology positions require advanced degrees. The PhD path refines expertise, research methodology skills, and clinical or applied techniques if relevant. The PhD path demands producing original research, mastering complex statistical techniques, and often involves teaching roles.
Advice for Aspiring Graduate Students
Braxton advises undergraduate students interested in pursuing graduate study to be prepared for the job-like feel of graduate school. She encourages speaking with professors and teaching assistants about their experiences in graduate school to gain a better understanding of what it's like to be a grad student in a certain department. Braxton also emphasizes the value of reflecting on research experiences through writing and blogging, as it can help in understanding personal growth and focus.
Focused Research
Braxton's specific research is about math avoidance, studying how people with math anxiety choose classes and careers. She believes that writing and blogging can help narrow one's focus in their research and career. Braxton found value in participating in a blog during her time at Princeton, as it helped her reflect on her research experiences and consider her career choices.
Princeton prepares students for classes in graduate school by requiring them to write papers and propose experiments. This hands-on approach helps students develop the skills necessary for success in graduate school.
Alec Israeli, Humanities Correspondent, appreciates Braxton's advice and shares how her own time doing research at Princeton has been influential in her career considerations. The interview with Braxton is featured in "our blog News" and is categorized under "Plans After Graduation".
Braxton's transition from undergrad to graduate school was more significant than she expected, as graduate school feels like a job. However, she believes that with the right preparation and mindset, students can thrive in this challenging and rewarding environment.
A Junior paper in psychology, reflecting the research experience gained during undergraduate education, can serve as a foundation for more focused research in graduate school, like Jalisha Braxton's study on math avoidance. The journey from undergraduate to graduate education involves a shift from a broad foundation in psychological concepts to a deeper specialization and original research, emphasizing personal growth, learning, and self-development in education and self-development.
