For me, I would have taken more classes that were specifically labeled as Statistics classes and not under the program track (though they were very helpful but they don't count if you want to teach the subject). I would have also taken more computer data analysis classes and any tangential software products that may be offered in other programs. SAS, Framemaker or Arbortext with IsoDraw comes to mind within Engineering programs outside of my program of graduate study. I believe I would have been better prepared for technical writing/publishing. Finally, I would have sent more time studying for GREs to open more options in choosing my graduate programs to allow for greater opportunities to teach and receive full assistant positions. Basically, tying my graduate education more specifically to a career path. Anyone like to chime in...
With 10 years in I have come to see the need to have more stats related courses that are disciplinary or field-based. I think grad programs at the research institutions are catching up with this. So, my advice would be similarly to yours: find out how data and statistics are being used in my field(s) and to seek out opportunities to take those courses and do that work. I encourage higher ed administrators to hire people in programs that can teach applied statistics within a given field, to open opportunities for grad students and early career professors/researchers to hone descriptive and inferential statistical analysis.
I always tell myself, 'If you say you can do it and if you say you can't do it, you are right in both cases."
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