Deirdre Dingman is an associate professor in the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences at Temple University. Prior to joining the faculty at Temple in 2016, she completed a RWJF post-doctoral fellowship in public health law research. Her degrees include a BS in social work, PBC in gerontology, an MPH and DrPH. Dr. Dingman currently teaches several undergraduate and graduate courses. Her areas of expertise include substance use and addiction, harm reduction and stigma. She has personal, professional and educational experience in prevention and treatment of substance use and substance use disorder, and recently completed a SAMHSA grant to study the opioid crisis in higher education. Her work continues to focus on reducing stigma and discrimination around substance use, especially through service with the American Public Health Association's ATOD committee.

The Journey to Authenticity in Academia

‘If a PhD is to be an ordeal – and indeed, it is – then let it be an ordeal wherein you find meaning in something that is true to yourself’. This article explores the feelings of imposter syndrome and the pressures to follow academic trends at the start of your PhD journey, disconnecting you from your true interests. A translation project helped the author realise the value of embracing his authentic self and focusing on what truly resonates with him. By shifting to linguistics and translation studies, the author found fulfilment and meaning in his research.

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Tips and Tales from a First-Generation Student

The barriers faced by first-generation students can be altogether challenging when navigating graduate school. In this article, a fellow first-generation student shares what it has been like being in a PhD program and offers pieces of encouragement and advice for getting through.

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