I often describe the work of viva prep as being similar to the work of a PhD. The work has a different focus but it exercises the same knowledge and abilities. For the most part it continues to be something that a candidate would do alone.
But does it have to be work you do solo? Whether or not you have friends and colleagues around you who are also getting ready for their viva, do you know people who could:
- Be in the same space as you while you read your thesis, so that you’re not alone?
- Bounce ideas around with you about how to annotate your thesis?
- Go for coffee and listen to you talk about your research?
- Help you even more by having a mini-viva with you?
If you know fellow PGRs who are also preparing then even better, but start by considering who your allies are. Start by asking for the support you need, if you need something.
The first rule of Prep Club is you tell other people about your need for Prep Club.
