Academic Vibrancy #

By definition, a vibrant academic is one who pursues their studies full of energy and enthusiasm. Having a PhD opens so many doors for a lifetime of exciting research; interesting and intelligent colleagues throughout the world; intellectual freedom; novel contributions to society; and more. Yet the process of getting a PhD comes with some unique challenges. These challenges may cause doctoral students to experience stress and may cause days to be less productive and joyful.

But … vibrancy, joy, and thriving are available in all of life and, in particular, during the PhD journey. In this class, we’ll learn strategies for keeping life balanced and positive and to increase vibrancy, joy, and thriving. One of these strategies is to have a supportive and understanding community. In this class, you will get to know each other well and you will be able to form a community.

Course Overview #

Course NameCSC 801 - Academic Vibrancy
SemesterSpring 2025
Credits3
FormatIn-person
Meeting Times01:55 P.M - 02:45 P.M
Meeting Location2216 Engineering Building 2

Prof. Dr. Laurie Williams
RoleInstructor
Emaillaurie_williams@csc.ncsu.edu
Office HoursTBD
In PersonRoom 2240D in EB2
NAME OF TA
RoleTA
Office HoursTBD
- in personTBD
- onlineTBD

Attendance #

Mandatory Attendance to get credit for the class. You may miss up to three classes unexcused.

Class Communications and Course Evaluations #

The class will use Piazza for communication.

You can email Dr. Williams at laurie_williams@csc.ncsu.edu. When emailing, use “[CSC801]” in the subject.

Online class evaluations will be available for students to complete during the last two weeks of class. Students will receive an email message directing them to a website where they can log in using their Unity ID and complete evaluations. All evaluations are confidential; instructors will never know how any one student responded to any question, and students will never know the ratings for any particular instructors.