The Measure of Viva Success
We need to change how we measure the viva and a candidate’s success. Lots of questions are asked about the viva: What corrections did you get? How long was it? What kind of corrections did you get? Did you go...
change the story
You Get To Have A Viva
A few weeks back I was moaning because I had to wake up at 4am to catch a flight. Grumble, grumble, too early, grumble, grumble, why do I have to do this? Then I remembered Seth Godin’s recent post about...
The End Is Nigh!
I’ve met people who are doom-and-gloom because they’re near the end of the PhD. Typically this is because their viva is coming up, though there can be a host of reasons – general concern about examiners, wondering about corrections, worries...
All Or Nothing
Is that what you think about the viva? If you do, I get why you would be stressed. The viva is another step along the journey, another milestone to saunter on past to the finish line. It’s not the end,...
Viral Viva Stories
…this one time, a person had a two-day viva… …your examiners play good cop/bad cop with their questions… …they’re just out to get you… …you can’t really prepare… Urban legends about the viva have spread well. Little idea-viruses swarming through...
Average and Typical
What is an average viva? I get this question at least once a month. I struggle to answer. I can’t talk about length, because while there is a skewing towards two hours across disciplines, the range is pretty big. It’s...
Verbs
Endure or enjoy? Fear or focus? Survive or thrive? You may not have total control over how you feel about the viva, but you can steer yourself. Choose your verbs carefully.
Questions and Focus
I recently watched the Tony Robbins documentary I Am Not Your Guru on Netflix. I’d really recommend it; it’s uncomfortable at times, funny at others, but it’s an interesting look at an interesting person and it gets you thinking. At...
Useful Words
What word do you use as a model or metaphor for the viva? Interrogation, examination, discussion, defence, trial, ordeal, conversation, unpredictable, unknown, chat… These aren’t neutral. Whatever words you use steer how you prepare for and approach the viva. You...
Coming Attractions
I went to the cinema recently. The movie was excellent, but even before that I was getting excited because of the trailers for other movies coming soon. The new Star Wars movie, Murder On The Orient Express – I’m not...