{"id":1173,"date":"2024-03-22T09:15:10","date_gmt":"2024-03-22T09:15:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.exeter.ac.uk\/apex\/?p=1173"},"modified":"2025-07-03T12:31:35","modified_gmt":"2025-07-03T12:31:35","slug":"phd-journey-tips-from-start-to-finish-by-dima-arafah","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sites.exeter.ac.uk\/apex\/2024\/03\/22\/phd-journey-tips-from-start-to-finish-by-dima-arafah\/","title":{"rendered":"PhD Journey Tips: From Start to Finish – by Dima Arafah"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
Starting a PhD is like going on a big adventure. It can be really exciting and sometimes tough, especially when things like COVID-19 change how we do everything, from talking to people to how we feel about being alone or getting our research done. I want to share some friendly tips for everyone doing a PhD, whether you’re just starting, in the middle, or almost done.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For the Newbies: Make the Most of Your Energy<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you first start, you’re probably super pumped. Here’s how to use that excitement:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Learn Lots: Go to classes and talks and read up on your topic. It’s also a great time to pick up new skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep Your Work Safe: Always have a backup of your research and notes. You don’t want to lose your hard work!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Find Your Happy Place: Figure out where you work best. It could be anywhere – a library, caf\u00e9, or even your kitchen!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hang Out with Cheerful People: Being around others who get what a PhD is all about can really help, especially on the not-so-good days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For Those in the Middle: Hang in There<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
This part can be tough. You might feel stuck or run out of steam. Here’s what can help:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Set Deadlines: Having clear goals can keep you moving forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Break It Down: Make a list of smaller tasks for each week to keep on track.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Change Scenery: If your usual spot isn’t inspiring anymore, try somewhere new. I switched from my kitchen to the library and it helped a lot!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Write It Down: Keep notes on what you’re doing and why. It’ll make things clearer for you later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Talk About It: Sharing how you’re feeling with other PhD students can make a big difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Find Friends Online: Following others who are going through the same thing can be really encouraging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep at It: Life might get in the way sometimes but try to keep making a little progress. It’s hard to start again if you stop for too long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Almost Done: The Last Few Steps<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
First off, big cheers for making it this far! After you turn in your big project:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Give It a Good Look: Go through your work carefully. Keep an eye out for the key points, any questions that might pop up, and little slip-ups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Viva Prep: Take advantage of any tips and links the PGR team sends to get ready for your viva.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Practice Makes Perfect: Have a mock viva with your mentors to get the feel of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Know What to Expect: Check out the usual questions and have your answers ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Brief Summary: Boil down each part of your work to a page to jog your memory before the viva.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Show Off Your Work: The viva is your time to shine and talk about all the great work you’ve done. Go in there proud and ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I hope these pointers help you cross the finish line with a smile!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Starting a PhD is like going on a big adventure. It can be really exciting and sometimes tough, especially when things like COVID-19 change how we do everything, from talking to people to how we feel about being alone or getting our research done. I want to share some friendly tips for everyone doing a […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":989,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[49],"tags":[79,71],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n
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