In this conversation, I had the pleasure of interviewing Kirsten Thornhill, PhD, about her inspiring journey transitioning from academia to industry. Kirsten shared her personal experiences, the challenges she faced, and the strategies that helped her navigate this major career change successfully.

We talked about the importance of having a growth mindset, building a strong network, and being willing to start fresh in a new field. Kirsten’s story serves as a motivational guide for anyone considering a similar path, demonstrating the potential for fulfillment and success outside of academia.

During our conversation, Kirsten opened up about the key elements of her transition, from the significance of networking and the challenges of job hunting to the art of effectively communicating transferable skills. She emphasized the power of informational interviews and peer feedback in refining her resume and identifying her strengths.

Kirsten also reflected on the role of ego in the transition process, sharing how she overcame feelings of inadequacy when applying for jobs. Her insights offer actionable advice for PhDs navigating their own career paths and looking to take their next steps with confidence.

If you liked that episode please leave us a review here so other PhDs can find us more easily.

If you need support in your transition from academia to industry check our Alma.me website and see how we can help.

Connect with Kirsten on LinkedIn.

For more daily inspiration connect with Elena and Angela on LinkedIn.