Explore the world of doctoral research and academia with insights, tips, and guidance for prospective and current PhD students. Navigate the challenges and rewards of the doctoral journey.
Part 2 of an atypical guide to getting a PhD, structured as ten tips. This article highlights a 10-year trek to a bachelor’s degree and a much-delayed 3.5-year sprint to a doctorate – all before age 50!
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This article takes the reader on a journey of a doctoral student, from applications, interviews, and building a relationship with supervisors, to coming full circle by mentoring other students starting out and facing challenges. The writer shares their advice and their own personal experience of each stage, including their fulfilling mentoring work promoting awareness of mental wellbeing among PhD students.
Dr Nicolai Due-Gundersen shares advice for turning your thesis into a book.
Academia is made up of people with a variety of career trajectories. Nevertheless, they can be broadly classified into two categories: 1. People who just
A research journey is a rollercoaster ride with its fair share of ups and downs. If we can enjoy the happy moments, we can overcome the things which pull us down. Let us see our PhD as a solo adventure trek, rather than a track race.
Starting a PhD is a monumental task, demanding personal and academic growth and creating panic about where to start. In this article, a PhD student breaks down the most important things to bear in mind when starting your PhD, making the project your own, and even enjoying the ride.
Mentors and supervisors are invaluable helpers on our PhD journey, yet this aspect of a PhD is often not considered enough to ensure they are the right fit for us. This article, from a Ghanian perspective, provides advice on finding and maintaining the right supervisors, who have the potential to completely transform one’s PhD journey into an enjoyable one. It reminds us that supervisors should be seen not as someone to try to replicate, but to springboard us into attaining our own personal goals.
Adapting to changes in research plans is an important skill for all researchers. Karl Miller writes about the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, including working from home, the inability to access equipment, and the need to redesign studies. However, online data collection provided new opportunities for learning and developing new skills.
From the importance of taking breaks, finding a supportive group, to valuing yourself and networking, these tips will help you get through the rough times and make the most of your PhD experience.
