Today, Marcy and Dr Kara Peters dive deep into many of the problems that students, researchers, and even faculty face today. Dr. Peters reminds us that even when we struggle, support, communication, and understanding are vital--and that we're all human. Together, they explore what it means to navigate the uncertainty that comes with graduate research: questioning your own abilities, learning when to push forward independently, and recognizing when to speak up. From managing lab dynamics to handling difficult conversations with advisors, this episode offers thoughtful guidance on building resilience and finding your footing in the academic world.

Professional Development for Graduate Students | The College of Engineering at NC State University

https://engr.ncsu.edu/academics/grad/professional-development/

Counselling Center @ NC State:

https://counseling.dasa.ncsu.edu/

In this episode, Marcy and Dr. Danny Smyl kick off with a 60-second elevator pitch before diving into the future of structural health monitoring. Dr. Smyl reveals how his military background honed a disciplined problem-solving mindset and shares key lessons that bridge research and practice. As an NC State alumnus, he highlights the university’s unique strengths and offers tips for students to maximize their time. They wrap up by discussing how to integrate cutting-edge AI into engineering education while preserving fundamental principles.

Dr. Danny's article: https://www.structuremag.org/article/from-intuition-to-algorithmic-inference/

Counselling Center @ NC State: https://counseling.dasa.ncsu.edu/

Edited by Pankaj Manoharlal Thakur

Join Marcy and Ken Gregory as they explore what it truly means to “leave it better than you found it.” Ken opens up about a major system failure he helped recover from and the resilience lessons it taught him. He reflects on the single piece of mentor advice that’s guided his career and reveals surprising insights he’s gained through reverse mentoring. Ken also walks us through his trusty career-navigation tool and wraps up with practical steps you can take today to make an immediate, positive impact in your team and industry.

Edited by Pankaj Manoharlal Thakur

Join host Marcy and special guest Dr. Joel Ducoste as they explore the power of Individual Development Plans (IDPs) for NC State engineering PhD students. In this episode, you’ll learn how IDPs boost career readiness and personal growth, discover the essential elements of a truly effective plan, and hear Dr. Ducoste’s tips for keeping your goals flexible without losing focus. Plus, find out how faculty can best support you, which campus resources to tap into, and why IDPs are crucial for preparing PhDs for a wide range of careers—both inside and beyond academia.

Edited by Pankaj Manoharlal Thakur

Join host Marcy Bullock, Director of Professional Development for doctoral engineering students at NC State University, as she kicks off the very first episode of Engineering Pack Pod! This podcast is all about real stories of resilience, career journeys, and professional growth from students, alumni, and industry professionals in the Wolfpack community.

In this episode, Marcy shares:

• Why success isn’t a straight path—and how challenges shape us.

• Upcoming workshops & resources, including "Smooth Sailing to a PhD," "Time Management Tips," and "Engineering Your Career Path."

• A key takeaway: Progress over perfection—because sometimes, good enough is enough.

Whether you're a student, recent grad, or seasoned professional, this podcast is your go-to for honest conversations, career advice, and motivation to help you thrive.

🔗 Explore more professional development resources: https://engr.ncsu.edu/academics/grad/professional-development/

🎧 Subscribe now and join the Pack!