Sean Bearden, Physics

Why did you choose to participate in the Leadership & Teamwork Certificate Program? What skills were you aiming to strengthen and why?

As I near the completion of my Ph.D., I am considering applying for industry positions. I realize the transition from academia to industry will likely involve working in larger teams with many responsibilities spread out across a leadership hierarchy. I also wanted to work on my ability to communicate technical solutions for multidisciplinary problems to team members outside of my field of research.

Describe your experience in the Leadership & Teamwork Certificate Program (ie. what you have learned, the progress you made, and how it helped you).

When I signed up for the Leadership and Teamwork Certificate Program I did not have expectations, however, I knew I had much to learn. There was an abundance of information presented during the lecture portions of the program, but I found the experience of interacting with others in group projects taught me the most about how to grow as a leader and, more importantly, as a team member. During projects, the instructors allowed for leadership/teamwork issues to arise naturally and gave us insight into how to resolve conflict within the group. The experience gave me self-awareness when working with others on my research.

What was your favorite part of the Leadership & Teamwork Certificate Program?

I enjoyed working on real projects at UCSD. My team worked with the Office of the Vice-Chancellor for Student Affairs to assist in defining what a student-centered UCSD will look like from the undergraduate perspective. During the project, we had the opportunity to network with many professionals on campus.

What is something about the Leadership & Teamwork Certificate Program that challenged you or that was difficult?

What is something about the Leadership & Teamwork Certificate Program that challenged you or that was difficult?

Initially, I found it challenging to depend on others with whom I have not previously worked. However, I quickly realized I do not have the time to do everything myself, so I have to learn to trust my team members to achieve goals. Each team member contributed their strengths to our projects, and we were able deliver when the deadlines arrived. In the process of contributing my strengths, I also recognized I can strengthen my weakest areas with the help of team members.