Counseling

Now Offering Critical Career Consults

We understand that sometimes career challenges arise unexpectedly and require immediate attention. Confidential, individual Critical Career Consults are designed to provide timely support for urgent career-related situations.

What qualifies as a critical career need?

If you are facing a pressing issue that requires quick action, Biosciences PhD/MS students and postdocs are eligible for a Critical Career Consult, for urgent needs including:

• Needing to leave the U.S., California, or Stanford quickly

• Complications with your advisor, PI, or research situation

• A pending interview within the next two weeks

• Negotiating a new job offer with a short deadline

• Lab changes, closures, or unexpected career disruptions

• Failing the USMLE or qualifying exam

How do I book a Critical Career Consult?

These appointments are reserved for Biosciences PhD/MS students and postdocs in urgent, time-sensitive situations and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. To schedule an appointment, please visit: Handshake. Medical students, MDs, residents, and fellows are only seen in extenuating circumstances. 

If you have a critical need and cannot find a fitting time slot, please contact bioscicareers@stanford.edu to inquire about options.

For all other career-related inquiries, we encourage you to explore:

• Written and video materials in our Resources section. 

• Detail on various career sectors can be found at What Can I Do With My Degree?

• Mentoring opportunities via our BioSci Connect Mentoring Program

• Resume/CV critique via VMOCK

Stay tuned for new meet-ups, employer/alumni connection events, and resource materials on specific sector success factors, applications, networking, and more!

We're here to support you when you need it most!