The Social Science Collective
A community and accountability program for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows

The Social Science Collective

An expert-led community and accountability program for social science graduate students and postdocs

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Graduate School can be both extremely rewarding and overwhelming...

I've been there - being clueless about running discussion sections and grading, experiencing major nerves during my master's thesis presentation (I literally don't remember what I said after it ended), agonizing about my PhD proposal with multiple 6am "bedtimes" fueled by coffee and snacks, crying in the department bathroom, and trying to juggle a social life outside of my studies, all while explaining myself to family and friends who couldn't quite understand why I would possibly want to prolong my time in school.

And at the same time...

I felt grateful for doing work that I loved, researching interesting topics, and having colleagues and mentors who cared.I learned that a strong support network makes all the difference: people who understand what you're going through, who help you think through challenges, and who encourage your next steps.

I also know that not everyone has that.And navigating grad school (or a postdoc) without support is exponentially harder.

That's why I created a peer community and accountability program, with expert guidance from someone who's been there – both through the stress and the fulfillment.

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About Me

I'm Dr. Sharon Shenhav, and I have a PhD in Psychology and Social Behavior from University of California, Irvine. My work has been published in peer-reviewed journals, I've completed two postdocs, and I have extensive experience supporting students. I've taught psychology and writing courses, held professional development sessions, hosted journal clubs, and mentored students on research projects.I also founded an academic editing service where I work with professors and graduate students across social science disciplines at top universities to refine their manuscripts and grant proposals.I've also been exactly where you are: I've had the 2am panic spirals, felt like there aren't enough hours in the day, and been intensely nervous before presentations and conferences.This program is built on everything I've learned – both from my own experiences navigating grad school and beyond and from mentoring dozens of students through their journeys.

Are you ready for accountability that works, clarity when you're stuck, and a supportive community of peers?

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FAQs

When exactly does the program start?
The first session will be the week of March 15th and the program will run through early-to-mid May 2026. Exact session days and times will be determined based on cohort time zones. You'll receive the full schedule before the program begins.What are clarity calls? Your chance to receive 1-1 support from me, from advisor relations to research challenges, prioritization, or whatever you're stuck on or would like to talk through.What are hot seat sessions? Your opportunity to present a challenge and get input from me and the group. Even when you're not in the hot seat, you'll learn from hearing others' situations.What's the cohort size? This pilot will include approximately 6-12 participants to ensure meaningful interaction.Can you edit my drafts or give written feedback? Not as part of this program, but we can discuss my editing services separately. You can bring writing challenges to hot seats or your clarity call for coaching, but I'm unable to provide written notes or edits.What happens between sessions? The community board is active for questions, venting, resource-sharing, and connection. I check it regularly and encourage you to engage with fellow members. Who knows - you might find your next collaborator or a friendly face at your next conference.Is what I share private? Yes. Community guidelines require all information stay private. For sensitive topics, keep questions general. Everything you share with me individually remains completely confidential.What if I miss a session? Life happens. Sessions will not be recorded so that members feel comfortable sharing, but any learning or resources will be shared on the community board afterward.Can I join if I'm not in the social sciences? Email me at [email protected]. I evaluate applications from other fields on a case-by-case basis.Why is there an application? The program works best when everyone is committed to active participation. The application helps ensure good fit. You will receive a response within 2 business days.Can I get additional 1-1 support? Yes! Your program includes one 45-minute clarity call. Additional calls can be purchased separately.I saw you're an academic editor – is this an editing service? No. This program is about support, strategy, and accountability. If you want editing services, we can discuss that separately through my business: www.sharonshenhavphd.com.I'm concerned about cost. Any suggestions? See if your lab or department has any professional development funds. Think about it as $45-$50/week for 8 weeks of support.Is this a writing group? No, but I encourage you to use accountability sessions for writing. This is broader than writing – it's about sustainable progress on all aspects of your academic work.I'm a faculty member/PI. Do you work with labs or departments? Yes! Email me at [email protected] to discuss options.I have other questions. Can we chat? Sure! Email me at [email protected] and we can schedule a brief call if needed.

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