The Social Academic with Jennifer van Alstyne | Online Presence for Professors Personal Websites for Academics and Scientists | Tips and advice for your academic website
Aug 7, 2025
Join Brittany Trinh, a Ph.D. candidate in chemistry and host of the Beyond Your Science podcast, and Ian Li, the brains behind Owlstown, as they unravel the secrets of personal academic websites. Discover the importance of authenticity in storytelling and how to present your academic journey effectively. They share tips on choosing the right website builder, the balance between aesthetics and functionality, and why showcasing a diverse range of works is crucial for a compelling online presence. Get inspired to elevate your academic digital footprint!
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College Blog Evolved Into Career Hub
- Brittany started a WordPress blog in college to document research and grad school applications.
- Over time she repurposed the site for career development and creative expression.
Mentor Sparked A Website Journey
- Jennifer says her undergraduate mentor's website inspired her to create her own academic site.
- Seeing someone else do it made Jennifer feel she deserved an online space too.
Pick A Website Path That Fits You
- Jennifer lists multiple ways to build a website: DIY builders, university platforms, friends, professionals, or agencies.
- Choose the path that fits your skills, time, and scope rather than assuming one method fits everyone.