![CDU researcher and supervisor outdoors](/files/styles/medium/public/2020-06/How%2520to%2520find%2520the%2520right%2520research%2520supervisor.jpg?h=1926dcfa&itok=8oL4sD6k)
If you’re considering a Higher Degree by Research (HDR), know this: Choosing the right research supervisor and forging a strong and mutually respectful working relationship is critical to your success. Here, CDU’s Dr Simon Moss, provides his top tips for knowing when you’ve found the right research supervisor.
![jack silburn launchpad 700x400](/files/styles/medium/public/2020-06/jack-silburn-launchpad-700x400.png?h=5f1b5b34&itok=Y6k-hsho)
Born and raised in the Northern Territory, Jack wanted to stay close to his loved ones after high school, while still achieving his goal of getting an IT degree. CDU was a natural choice. Here's how his IT studies and the tight-knit IT community helped him realise his career goals.
![Meg Parry Environmental Sciences alumni at CDU](/files/styles/medium/public/2020-06/meg-parry-launchpad-header-1800x800.png?h=1926dcfa&itok=PMIN9VKl)
When Meg graduated from CDU with an environmental science degree, she quickly landed a job in her chosen profession. But Meg’s success came after many challenges. Her story is one of persistence, passion and knowing when to reach out for help.
![Elizabeth smiling with her two children](/files/styles/medium/public/2020-06/Elisabeth%2520Sandow%2520-%2520Article.jpg?h=5f1b5b34&itok=LmNBLGE8)
Wondering if it’s possible to balance study and family? Elizabeth shared with us her hopes and honest experience about being a dynamic mum who works full time while studying a degree online at CDU.
![feancy bangsa launchpad header 1800x800 %282%29](/files/styles/medium/public/2020-06/feancy-bangsa-launchpad-header-1800x800%2520%25282%2529.png?h=1926dcfa&itok=fQSadkTM)
Feancy had big plans to own a hotel, but starting a family and travelling the world changed her perspective. Now, with both a business degree and certificate in community services from CDU, she's working as a family support worker with Save the Children Australia. Read on to see how she's made it happen.
![Benjamin Poveda Alfonso Thumbnail](/files/styles/medium/public/2018-09/benjamin-poveda-alfonso-2.jpg?h=5aa6adb2&itok=Jx5sB5_w)
Ben’s journey as a Charles Darwin University international student started in a slightly unconventional way. He had failed his English exams in the fourth year of his finance degree in his home country of Colombia.
![Nezily studying and working](/files/styles/medium/public/2022-01/Nezily.png?h=c038ed4a&itok=UmQP4SRq)
Darwin local Nezily has her hands full. This mum works full-time for a not-for-profit organisation while studying a Master of Business Administration online with Charles Darwin University.
![Ngoc-teaching-1](/files/styles/medium/public/2022-05/1_0.jpg?h=d952e0f6&itok=AGPOeGwd)
Despite previously studying business, Ngoc found herself interested in pursuing a career in teaching. She began looking for a flexible degree that would allow her to become a teacher in Australia.
![Alumni awards finalist, illustrator Jonathon Saunders](/files/styles/medium/public/2021-09/Accelerate%202016%20Melbourne.jpg?h=2f6d618e&itok=rBAavv5A)
Creativity and education are empowering Jonathon to draw conclusions about his future. He pictures ongoing success, and based on his current achievements, he won’t be wrong.