Ep 46: Permission to Pivot: Navigating the Unexpected in Grad School

✨ What if your grad school journey doesn't go according to plan?

Maybe you've thought about changing programs. Taking a leave of absence. Starting over. Or maybe life forced you to make a pivot you never expected.

This week on the Grad Girl Wellness Podcast, I'm joined by Valisha Edwards, a PhD student in Integrated Life Sciences with a concentration in Forensic Toxicology. Before beginning her doctoral journey, Valisha built a career as a forensic scientist/criminalist—giving her a unique perspective on what it means to leave the working world and step back into life as a graduate student.

We discuss:

🌱 Navigating the shame and insecurity that can come with unexpected detours

📚 How to choose a graduate program and advisor that truly fit your goals and needs

✨ Finding your identity beyond your degree when the title of "student" is no longer yours

🔍 Why curiosity—not fear—can be your greatest guide during a season of change

Your path doesn't have to be linear to be meaningful. Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is ask a different question, choose a different direction, or redefine what success looks like for you.

If you're in a season of uncertainty, this conversation is for you.

💬 Connect with the future Dr. Edwards on LinkedIn

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