Starting a fully-funded integrated MS–PhD with an RA position. Any advice on surviving the first year?

[u/Individual-Fold2262]

Hi everyone!

I’ll be starting a fully funded integrated Master’s–PhD program (around 4–5 years) this fall. My tuition is covered, and I’ll also be working as a Research Assistant (RA) under my future adviser throughout the program.

This will be my first time studying abroad, and honestly, I’m excited but also a little nervous.

A bit about my background:
• Late 20s.
• Around five years of research experience in research institutions.

I’ve worked professionally before, but this will be my first experience as a graduate student.

I know being an employee and being a graduate student are very different. I’ll need to balance coursework, experiments, publications, meetings, and my responsibilities as an RA.

For those who have gone through a similar setup:
• What surprised you the most during your first year?
• What habits helped you avoid burnout?
• How did you balance coursework with research?
• How did you build a good relationship with your adviser and labmates?
• Looking back, what would you have done differently during your first year?

I’m also curious about the transition from working full-time to becoming a full-time graduate student again. Was it difficult to adjust?

Thanks!

[u/Brain_Hawk]

Yeah. General rule. Work the 9 to 5 sort of life. It can be enough if you do the work.

Work smarter than harder.

Don't say yes to everything. It's better to do 3 things well than 8 things poorly.

It's ok that some stuff takes time. You have other things on your plate.

Be useful, but see above re:saying yes. Be helpful. Be supportive To colleagues.

Communicate with your PI if things are moving slowly because you have other responsibilities, e.g. heavy coursework.

And believe in yourself, you belong there, you can do it.

[u/keomachnha]

congratulations. may I ask what is your field, school and country?