Turn Your Expertise into Impact

About Scholarly Transitions

Scholarly Transitions empowers social science and humanities PhDs to prepare for and secure meaningful careers that leverage their expertise for leadership and impact.

Founded by Dr. Marya T. Mtshali, a sociologist with experience in finance, nonprofit work, and higher education, Scholarly Transitions bridges academic insight with real-world application. Additionally, drawing on years as a Lecturer at Harvard University and a postdoctoral fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School, Marya helps PhDs translate their expertise into meaningful, socially impactful careers.

For PhDs Ready to Expand Their Professional Impact

You’ve worked hard to earn your PhD. You’ve developed critical thinking, deep research skills, and the ability to manage complex projects. But when it comes to turning those strengths into career opportunities, the path isn’t always clear.

That’s where I come in. I specialize in guiding Social Science and Humanities PhDs who are ready to explore meaningful roles in nonprofits, higher education, policy, and industry — and who want the tools, language, and confidence to get there.

Want to Discover Your PhD Career Strengths?

Where could your abilities take you next? Take this quick quiz to uncover your career persona and get a free workbook to turn insight into action.

What I Offer

Through 1:1 coaching, group coaching programs, consultation, and actionable resources, I help you:

• Articulate how your academic skills translate across sectors

• Explore career paths in nonprofits, higher education, policy, and industry

• Build compelling job applications and LinkedIn profiles

• Network with confidence and clarity

• Prepare for interviews and negotiate offers

• Overcome imposter syndrome and embrace your strengths

Whether you’re just beginning to explore possibilities or actively applying for jobs, I meet you where you are — through personalized coaching or collaborative group sessions — and help you move forward with clarity, a strategic plan, and confidence.

Real Transitions, Real Growth

Discover what our clients think about our service

Dr. Mtshali brings extraordinary breadth and insight into a confusing, stressful, and complicated job market. First, Marya is welcoming and open; she truly understands the complicated emotions related to the PhD and transitioning out of academia. We have a wonderful rapport, and I feel supported. Second, Marya's coaching process is the perfect amount of structure and flexibility. Her sessions are tailored to my specific priorities, and I her workbooks are engaging and practical.She has a keen ability to identify and breakdown my sticking points. Plus, Marya has a birds eye view of the field and her high-level strategies/tools have boosted my confidence and resiliency. It feels great to to apply Marya's frameworks and see success that matters to me.

PhD Graduate in Environmental Studies

I left my initial sessions with Marya feeling hopeful, capable and seen as a complete human being. The academy can be a wonderful and traumatizing place all at once. Her own experiences on the tenure track inform her empathetic disposition. Through our structured assignments, carefully tailored correspondence and discussions, I was not only poised to consider my future career directions, but also to continue my post-academia healing journey.

Assistant Professor of Political Science

★★★★★

★★★★★

Your Career Exploration Toolkit

Move confidently through your career journey.

Whether you’re exploring options or ready to apply, my services are built to guide you at every step.

Career Narrative Design

Craft a clear and compelling professional story that communicates the value of your research and expertise—whether in academia, nonprofits, policy, or industry.

CV-to-Resume Translation

Transform your academic CV into a results-driven resume tailored for non-academic employers.

Gain confidence, craft compelling stories, and expand your professional network.

Interview & Networking Prep

Get Your Free Workbook to help you find direction in your Phd career journey

You’ve spent years developing expertise, resilience, and focus. Now comes the question no one prepared you for: What’s next?

Your Post-PhD Starting Point is designed to help you pause, reflect, and begin mapping a path that feels both possible and purposeful. Inside, you’ll find:

Whether you’re exploring new paths or ready to take action, you’ll walk away with:

• Guided prompts to clarify what you want from your next chapter

• Reflection exercises to reconnect with your strengths and values

• Space to think through what success means to you — on your own terms

• A curated list of 30 transferable skills most often sought by employers — and often overlooked by PhDs

Whether you’re exploring options or ready to take action, this workbook helps you move from confusion to clarity.

Take a short quiz and download your free copy -- take the first step toward what’s next.

Why Work with Me

As a PhD myself, I understand how challenging it can be to navigate what comes next. I’ve been in your shoes—uncertain about options, unsure how to communicate my value, and overwhelmed by the job market.

Now, after years of working across higher education, nonprofits, and industry, I help other PhDs translate their expertise into meaningful work. My approach combines practical tools with compassionate support, so you never feel like you’re making this journey alone.

Join Our Community

Get career guidance for your transition today!