ISC - Missouri S&T

Abstract: The PhD journey is a pivotal experience, marked by significant decisions and challenges that shape both academic and professional futures. In this keynote talk, we first talk about Dr. Silvestri’s path towards interdisciplinary research. Specifically, we discuss challenges and lessons learned while transitioning from pure networking research to cyber-physical systems applied to various multi-disciplinary domains, such as smart energy systems and smart agriculture. Subsequently, we delve into the critical aspects of a successful PhD journey, beginning with practical tips for success in both your PhD and your future career and how to avoid common pitfalls that many PhD students encounter. Among these challenges, we will discuss how to deal with paper rejections as well as with the impostor syndrome, a prevalent issue in academia, often undermining confidence and mental health. We will explore strategies to understand how success is achieved in the world of academia and help overcome the feelings of insecurity at the basis of this syndrome.