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Tim Carter
Ball State University
Dept of Biology
765-285-8842

Dept of Biology
 

WHAT I EXPECT FROM MY STUDENTS

1. Goals - I see the primary goal of a Masters of Science degree as exactly that – mastering science.  As part of that, I expect all my students to complete all the steps required by the Department and University to graduate.  The research that is required as part of that degree is no exception.  The research should be original and of good quality.  I do not expect the research to be at the level of a Ph.D.  But I do expect quality work and effort.  Traditionally a Masters degree takes 2 years to conduct.  However, all too often in the field-sciences students find themselves on the 2.5 – 3 year plan.  This is often a result of needing two field seasons which often come in the summer.
    

2. Learning/training/grades - I see all aspects of your time here at graduate school as opportunities to learn.  Many of these are formal opportunities such as classes, but just as many are informal.  These can be everything from working together in the field to discussing potential projects over lunch.  I expect my students to take advantage of as many of these opportunities as possible.  As for class work, I see classes as a means to learning information.  Grades are simply a representation of how much of that information you have retained.  It is not always the goal of the student to retain all of the information that is offered.  As such, I don’t expect students to get an “A” in every class.  Students should evaluate what level of knowledge they require from each course and work to attain that level.  I do expect however my students to get a “B” or better in most classes.
    

3. Cooperation - I expect my students to work together as often as possible.  Graduate school should not be a competitive setting.  Collaborating with fellow graduate students is a great opportunity to learn new and different methods and ideas.
    

4. Time - I prefer not to micromanage students, I do not expect students to be in their office all day and everyday.  But rather I expect my students to manage their time as they see fit.  I do expect students to meet all deadline and obligations they have.