Chapter 3 Getting Started in Our Research Group

We’re so thrilled that you’ve decided to join us at our research group at UVA! In this section, we’ll outline some useful tips/steps that will help you get situated within our group specifically. Note that you should keep an eye out on instructions from the Department and UVA!

3.1 6 to 3 Months Before Arriving at UVA

Task Resources/Notes
  • Start looking into housing options for the upcoming term
  • UVA Off Grounds Housing Page: a decent place to look at listings
  • More aggregated resources
  • Confirm logistics for moving to UVA
  • We have some resources to defray a portion of the moving costs for non-local students at the lab. Please check with Fred to see what is available and get things in writing

3.2 3 Months to Arrival at UVA

Task Resources/Notes
  • Early June: Ensure you have UVA account and email
  • Early June: Familiarize yourself with degree requirements and roughly plan out courses
  • Early June: Familiarize yourself with the EVSC Graduate Student Association and their graduate handbook

  • Their main page

  • Their handbook has helpful tips and resources made by, and for, grad students in our department. Handbook linked in GSA page above.
  • ~ Jul 1:Course Selection for Fall for New Graduate Students
  • Mid-July: Confirm whether you are enrolling in UVA health insurance or waive with proof of comparable coverage (have to do this every year!)

  • Students are required to be covered by some health insurance

  • Details of UVA plan here; note that grad students on GRA or GTA in the academic year get a health insurance subsidy
  • Explore student services + support at UVA and in the Department

  • Student health and wellness: link

  • PhD Plus: link
  • Explore events, activities, services offered by UVA and Charlottesville
  • Prior to starting: Go over lab documentation (Sections 1 through 6 of this document)
  • Early Aug: Complete Step 1 of the Department’s Mentorship Agreement

  • Please use the copy here (I’ve added a couple questions to help guide our discussion)

  • Do your best to fill it out but we will use it during our first meeting when you arrive!

3.3 First Week of the Term

Task Resources/Notes
  • Get situated in your office and our lab (get ID card, keys, etc.)

  • See section in EVSC GSA handbook

  • Key form located on left sidebar here

  • Set up personal lab computer + associated software

    • Research Group Slack

    • Research Group Calendar
  • Mid to Late August: Fall Term Begins
  • Enjoy!!
  • Set up meeting with Fred for check-in
  • Discuss mentorship agreement, schedule, plan for semester

3.4 First Term

Task Resources/Notes
  • Work towards finding the necessary habits and schedule for you to have a healthy work-life balance
  • ~Last week of fall term: Set up check-in meeting with Fred