ABSTRACT
I think the most important suggestions for students completing graduate work are to have a positive working relationship with your advisor (and committee) and to have a committed timeline. First of all, the relationship with the advisor is vitally important to the success and completion of any thesis or dissertation. My relationship with my advisor was such that she would have materials turned around within three days of receiving them. If you show your advisor that you are serious about completing the dissertation and continue to provide her/him with materials to read, s/he is more likely to respond in fashion. In addition to having a good advisor, you should also rely on the expertise of your committee members. Do not just talk to your committee when you drop off parts of the dissertation, but show them that you are interested in their input about your progress. Seek them out for ideas and resources about your project—show them that you really want them involved, not just to sign off on paperwork, but to help generate ideas for your project. Creating a positive relationship with your advisor and committee is half of your success in completing the dissertation!
