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Significant Others:
Life Partners, Spouses, Family, Friends, and Other Close Supports

Acknowledging the valuable role that significant others play in a student's success is important. By providing them with the necessary tools, a dedicated space, and recognition, we can set the stage for achievement and growth for both the student and their support systems.

"It's a Collective Process"

​Listen to a 1st year doctoral student describe the educational impact it has on both the student and their family unit.

(1 min. 07 sec.) 

 3 Quick Tips for Significant Others 

Significant other discusses the main lessons he learned while his student partner went through a doctoral program.

(2 min. 28 sec.) 

  1. Initiate a formal sit-down to openly discuss the expectations and challenges that both, the student and significant other could experience.
  2. Accept there will be frustrations along the way, so have a tool kit for conflict resolution. 
  3. Have an active role in the student's studying process.
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