Committee

Choosing a graduate committee is something that should be planned as the final semester of the graduate curriculum begins.

Ideally the 3 advisors are professors in the same or a similar field. Many times these professors will be the ones that the student has had in a recent class, so it is imperative that relations with all professors be kept professional and positive as long as circumstances permit.

The ideal advisor on a thesis committee is a professor that is easy to reach, knowledgable of the subject matter, and receptive to the thesis proposal. Proper guidance can make a solid thesis much stronger, especially a professor with years of experience in different professions (not necessarily only on the academic front).

If a student does not plan ahead, there exists a chance that they will not acquirre the panel of advisors that will best direct them and provide the best guidance during the development of the thesis. This can lead to problems during the final presentation / defense of the thesis, especially if communication has not been frequent.