Have you ever wondered what lies behind those three letters, ‘PhD’? Most commonly associated with the prestigious academic degree of Doctor of Philosophy, ‘PhD’ holds a special place in the world of higher education. But what if we told you that it can stand for so much more than just a title?
In this blog post, we dive deep into the depths of imagination and reveal the top 10 alternative meanings for ‘PhD’ that emerged from our Twitter experiment. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of laughter, surprise, and intriguing insights as we decode ‘PhD’ in a way you’ve never seen before.
10. Pretty huge... Decision
The first of many, no doubt! Just the application process can take months or even years of preparation for some candidates. Doing a PhD is an enormous undertaking, and it certainly isn’t a decision that should be taken lightly.
Pretty huge...decision
— Mini (@mini_s1992) May 18, 2023
9. Projects half Done
The feeling of being overwhelmed by unfinished tasks can be all too relatable. From that notebook by your bedside to the countless ideas buzzing in your mind, these unstarted projects serve as a constant reminder of untapped potential.
Projects half Done
— Editage: Helping you get published (@Editage) May 18, 2023
8. Parents have Doubts
You’re not alone. It’s a common experience in academia. The truth is, comprehending the intricacies of a PhD can be challenging unless you’re personally immersed in it. Even for us PhD students, there are moments when we question our own path. If you find yourself in this situation, consider sitting down with your parents and having an open conversation about your aspirations and the purpose behind your pursuit. It can be a positive first step towards easing the tension and helping them understand the significance of your journey.
Parents have doubts
— Corey Frazer (@OG_coreyfrazer) May 18, 2023
7. PhuD
I might be writing this article at midnight, perhaps the only available time I’ve had all week to dedicate to it. Despite feeling quite tired, there’s a pressing need to push through and get it finished! *Phud*
Phud. The noise your head makes when it hits the desk at 3am because you are still trying to get something finished.
— C J Eager (@CJEager1) May 19, 2023
6. Plonker (of the) highest Degree
… but we keep going! You may feel foolish at times. Especially when the days are long and you feel like you haven’t achieved much. Particularly when you spend the whole day responding to emails. It’ll be worth it. Even if it is just to call yourself a doctor. Unless there is a medical emergency, in which case I am just a plonker doing a PhD.
My wife refers to me as Plonker (of the) Highest Degree.
— Robert Dale (@DrRobDale) May 19, 2023
5. Pretty horrendous Decision
We understand the doubts and challenges that can arise during your PhD journey. If you find yourself questioning whether pursuing a PhD was a terrible decision, we encourage you to watch Dr Richelle Clark’s video titled ‘My PhD Took 10 Years – This Is Why It Was Worth It’. It has the potential to provide valuable motivation and perspective for your own path. Trust us, we’ve been there. Let others serve as a source of inspiration as you navigate through the ups and downs of your own PhD experience.
Pretty Horrendous Decision
— Benjamin Silvester (@BRSilvester) May 18, 2023
4. Phlipping Difficult
The countdown continues! It’s one of those rare mysteries where the more knowledge you acquire, the more you realize how much there is still to learn. It can be a daunting and challenging journey. Embrace the difficulties as opportunities for growth and keep pushing forward. You’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed. Remember – You Belong Here!
Phlipping Difficult.
— Jo Mortimer (@JoMortProofread) May 18, 2023
3. Pizza Hut Delivery
This was by far one of the most popular answers. Pizza Hut delivery, a reliable companion during late-night study sessions and research marathons. What is the correlation between starting a PhD and pizza intake? It’s a phenomenon that begs to be explored further. Perhaps someone should write a thesis.
Pizza Hut Delivery 🍕
— Arief (@glassbread_) May 18, 2023
2. Please help David
We are all David. That is all.
Please Help David
— David Dranow, The Gentleman Scientist (@GntlmnScientist) May 18, 2023
1. Phinally Done
The perfect end to our journey… literally. After years of hard work, sleepless nights, and countless revisions, the moment has finally arrived when we can proudly hit that submit button. We can already picture ourselves sinking into a well-deserved rest, putting our feet up for a blissful hour, letting go of the weight that has burdened us for so long…
In this fleeting moment of accomplishment, there’s a sense of satisfaction that can hardly be surpassed. Then we have to start preparing for the Viva.
PHinally Done
— That Sociologist (@ThatSociologist) May 18, 2023
There you have it! Remember, doing a ‘PhD’ is not just an academic endeavour; it represents a profound personal and intellectual transformation. So, keep pushing boundaries, keep seeking knowledge, and keep sharing your unique perspective with the world.
