What is this blog about?

When I started my master's coursework in marine ecology, my advisor told me I could choose any research topic I wanted for my thesis project with two conditions:

1. I couldn't choose anything that was likely to get me seriously hurt or killed, and


2. I had to find and secure my own funding for the project.

The first condition didn't worry me one bit, but the second condition made me a little nervous.  At that point in my life, I knew next to nothing about applying to fellowships, grants, and/or scholarships.  I didn't know where to find them or what sort of application materials I would be expected to provide, much less how to put together a compelling and fundable application.

For better or for worse, that blissful naivete didn't last long.  With a little bit of guidance from my advisor and labmates, and with a whole lot of determination and persistence, I was able to put together all of the money I needed for my research project (on the order of $30,000).  More than once, I found myself wishing that I had access to a good resource to teach me how to write an effective grant proposal, to find funding sources, to build a strong resume that was appropriate to my field, and on and on and on.

After lamenting the lack of such a resource for many years, I have finally decided to do my best to create one myself.  Much of what I have to share I have learned through trial and error, discussions with mentors and colleagues, and through extensive research online and in books.  I will not pretend to be a professional grant writer, or even a real expert, but I have picked up a few skills and tips along the way that have helped me to successfully obtain funding.

This blog is an attempt to pass on what I have learned, and to help people successfully fund their graduate education.  I hope you find the content helpful, and I welcome any feedback you have for me.


Best of luck,

Casey