University of Michigan-Flint Graduate Programs

Ever wondered how a first-generation college student navigates not just one, but multiple graduate programs – while balancing family, career, and self-doubt? In our latest episode of the University of Michigan-Flint Graduate Programs Victors in Grad School , Christopher Lewis, Ed.D sits down with DeeAnne Schwalm to explore her remarkable and unconventional journey, from earning a degree in physical therapy to returning years later to pursue her passion as a physician assistant.

Key Themes You’ll Hear:

The non-linear path to advanced degrees: Dee Schwam shares how setbacks, self-discovery, and inspiration shaped her educational decisions.

Overcoming imposter syndrome: Real talk about how doubt can appear—and how to move through it.

Balancing grad school with parenting: Practical, heartfelt advice on managing rigorous academics while raising a family and modeling resilience.

The power of focus, faith, and community: Concrete tips on time management, building support systems, and staying motivated.

If you’re considering grad school, transitioning careers, or just need some inspiration to keep chasing your own path, this candid conversation is for you.

🔗 Listen now: https://blogs.umflint.edu/graduateprograms/2026/06/22/from-first-gen-student-to-pa-dee-schwalms-unconventional-grad-school-journey/



Feel free to personalize further if you’d like!

Are you considering graduate school or wondering how it could play a role in your future success? Our latest episode of the University of Michigan-Flint Graduate Programs Victors in Grad School brings you an inspiring conversation between Michael McGetrick, co-founder of Spark451, and Christopher Lewis, Ed.D Lewis from the University of Michigan-Flint.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

How Michael McGetrick’s journey from Brooklyn College to NYU Tandon School of Engineering shaped his approach to creativity, analytics, and innovation

The power of blending different disciplines—like business, technology, and the arts—to create real impact in your career.

Practical strategies for balancing grad school with family and professional life, even with a busy schedule.

The importance of community, mentorship, and building lasting connections during your graduate journey.

Tips for reigniting your passion and making the most of your grad program (hint: your professors and classmates are incredible resources!).

Whether you’re just starting to think about grad school or looking for ways to maximize your experience, Michael McGetrick’s story is filled with actionable advice, honest reflections, and the kind of encouragement every future grad student needs.

Ready to hear how grad school can transform both you and your career?

👉 Listen now: https://blogs.umflint.edu/graduateprograms/2026/06/15/how-grad-school-sparked-two-startups-michael-mcgetricks-story/

Graduate school is a journey filled with transitions, challenges, and opportunities for growth. In the latest episode of the University of Michigan-Flint Graduate Programs Victors in Grad School , Jeffrey Yackley, PhD of the University of Michigan-Flint shares his personal story—from pivoting away from a medical career to embracing computer science, and ultimately finding his passion in academia and teaching.

Key themes from this inspiring conversation include:

Resilience: The importance of perseverance when plans change and setbacks happen.

Introspection: The necessity of honest self-reflection in choosing the path that’s right for you.

Mentorship & Connection: How trusted faculty and supportive peers can make all the difference during difficult moments.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Redefining success and building confidence, even when facing self-doubt or rejection.

Time Management: Practical strategies for balancing research, teaching, and personal responsibilities.

Whether you’re already on your grad school journey or considering taking the next step, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice.

I highly encourage you to listen to the full podcast here:
https://blogs.umflint.edu/graduateprograms/2026/06/08/resilience-and-reinvention-dr-jeff-yackleys-graduate-school-journey/

Let us know your thoughts—how have resilience and mentorship shaped your academic path?

This week on the University of Michigan-Flint Graduate Programs Victors in Grad School , Christopher Lewis, Ed.D sits down with Max Camara, a third-year physical therapy student at the University of Michigan-Flint, to explore Max’s unique journey from studying engineering to pursuing his passion for physical therapy.

Some key themes and takeaways:

It’s a journey, not a straight line: Max Camara shares how he started in engineering at University of Colorado before uncovering a love for exercise science and patient care, eventually choosing the PT path after plenty of reflection and exploring different options.

Choosing the right grad school: Max highlights the importance of mentorship, program culture, cost, and hands-on opportunities. A personal call from a mentor at UM-Flint ultimately sealed his decision.

Hands-on experience matters: Max explains how getting involved in UM-Flint’s pro bono HEART Clinic not only improved his clinical skills but also helped him build leadership, research expertise, and community connections.

Managing the grad school hustle: Transitioning from undergrad study habits to a “treat-it-like-a-job” approach and building strong routines were key to maintaining both academic success and a healthy life balance.

Imposter syndrome is normal: Max gets real about self-doubt and combating imposter syndrome by engaging deeply in real-world experiences and focusing on incremental progress.

If you’re considering graduate school—or just want some honest insights on navigating big life transitions—this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiration.

🎧 Listen here: https://blogs.umflint.edu/graduateprograms/2026/06/01/from-engineering-to-physical-therapy-maxs-journey/

Join us to learn more about UM-Flint’s graduate health programs, connect with faculty, and explore opportunities to advance your career in the health field.

EVENT INFO

📅 June 17
⏰ 4:00–6:00 PM
📍 William S. White Building

CTA

Register Today
https://events.umflint.edu/gp/events/20418

In this insightful episode of the University of Michigan-Flint Victors in Grad School podcast, Dr. Steve Wilson shares his journey from undergraduate research to earning a PhD, offering practical advice for anyone considering—or already navigating—graduate school.

Here are some of the standout themes:

🔹 The Power of Undergraduate Research
Discover how getting involved in research as an undergrad can spark your passion and open unexpected doors.

🔹 Funding Your Graduate Education
Dr. Steve Wilson debunks the myth that PhDs are financially out of reach, especially in STEM fields where programs are often fully funded—tuition, insurance, and stipend included.

🔹 Choosing the Right Program
Learn why it's crucial to research faculty and funding guarantees, and how aligning your academic interests can shape your grad school experience.

🔹 Succeeding in Graduate School
Transitioning to grad school means embracing research, networking with peers, and actively seeking out opportunities beyond the classroom. Taking ownership of your learning journey is key!

🔹 Balancing Life and School
Honest reflections on juggling studies, work, and personal life—plus the importance of making connections inside and outside your field.

🔹 The Value of Postdoctoral Experience
Dr. Steve Wilson discusses how a postdoc can broaden your research, add international experience, and give breathing room post-PhD.

Whether you’re just thinking about grad school or are deep in the process, this episode bursts with actionable tips and motivation to help you succeed.

🎧 Listen to the full conversation here: https://blogs.umflint.edu/graduateprograms/2026/05/25/from-research-to-reality-finding-success-in-graduate-school/