Meet Jesmin Akter, a Graduate College Fellow and doctoral student in the Sociology program. Read on to learn more about Jesmin's favorite places in Kent, what she enjoys doing in her free time and what advice she has for incoming graduate students.
Where is your hometown?
I am from Khulna, Bangladesh.
Why did you choose Kent State University?
The vibrant campus environment and the beautiful natural settings are few of the many reasons for me to choose Kent State University.
What do you like most about Kent? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
I have completed both my Bachelor and Masters at KSU. Kent has become my home away from home. It is hard to choose one spot or activity. Going to the Farmers market on every Saturday has become more like a ritual. I also enjoy a stroll by the river going to the Tannery and Franklin park.
What is your favorite KSU memory?
Bringing my new born daughter to the same campus where I started my journey will always be a favorite memory of mine at KSU.
What are some differences you've noticed in being a graduate student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergraduate student?
Graduate school requires rigorous time management and self-determination compared to undergraduate. Graduate students are expected to maintain a good rapport with their professors and the overall department. Your peers will become one of your biggest supporters in this journey.
What advice do you have for incoming graduate students?
The first year is the hardest regarding adjusting to graduate school with other expectations in life. Taking care of your health might go down on your priority list. Please keep in mind your physical and mental health is the most important thing to achieve your goal. Making a trip to the health center when you do not feel well is important. If you are coming back to school after a break between undergraduate and graduate school, it might be difficult to get back into the mindset of sitting down to do homework and write papers. Setting up a weekly goal will be helpful. If you do not get to accomplish everything from your to-do list, please do not be discouraged. If you come this far, you can do it.
Fun Fact About Me:
My brain is too busy to let my body to take a nap. The only way I could take a nap is getting close to water.