ABSTRACT
Finding one's academic voice and developing a scholarly identity are assumed to be byproducts of the journey toward completing a doctoral degree. While this comes easily for some, others are hampered by feelings of fear and intimidation that silences them when surrounded by others with strong personalities. Insecurities, thoughts of inadequacy, and doubt can creep in and keep your academic identity from evolving. It is imperative that students receive support and are mentored, or they may not develop their academic voice, or worse yet, not even finish their program. During the difficult times, some students are self-motivated, some rely on their peers to push them along, and others lean on their major professor. Genuine and thoughtful feedback from someone who has made it or is further along in the program can provide the encouragement necessary to make it to the end. This chapter describes how a relationship with a professor not only opens doors but gives the inspiration to walk through and develop an academic voice.
