“Completing the SEED course and adopting the KNN flourishing framework has allowed me to actualize a career path after completion of my PhD while giving me the tools to flourish on the journey there instead of just surviving the journey.”

“I was able to talk with multiple professors that helped me realize that I want to have teaching as a portion of my future career. I think that without this course I would have either got to this conclusion late in my career or even disregard it.”

” The experiential learning approach helped me gain clarity on my career direction and confidence in my skills. I am grateful for this initiative and the way it broadened my perspective beyond traditional academic training”

We asked the students to give us some feedback and here are some of the highlights: (picture of words that represented the course to the students)

The pilot cohort wrapped up in May, and students and faculty presented at the KNN Annual Conference in September—sharing their reflections and experiential learning outcomes. A proud moment for our department and a powerful showcase of what SEED can do!

Simultaneously trainees meet bi-weekly with faculty and peers to reflect on their progress using the @KernNationalNetwork Flourishing Pillars. These sessions reinforce purpose, connection, and growth—making career development a shared journey.

SEED offers individualized, experiential learning tailored to each trainee’s career interests—whether that is teaching, policy, industry, or beyond. Each student is paired with a mentor to co-design a personalized plan for growth, portfolio building, and a capstone project.

Career mentoring and experiential learning are critical gaps in graduate education. SEED was created to address this need—while also prioritizing well-being as a core part of career growth. Because thriving scientists need more than just skills—they need support.

SEED aims to better prepare our trainees to their future career options as there has been a critical need for career mentoring and experiential learning, without forgetting well being as an essential part of career growth!