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Tag: more than hope

Nathan

Glass Half-Full

Daily Post

I think that the majority of PhD candidates can be broadly optimistic for their viva.

Believing that you’ll succeed doesn’t come from simply hoping though. Hope is good, but generally hope is what we have left when we have no meaningful actions we can take. A PhD candidate, on the other hand, can build up their capability and their confidence as they work through their PhD journey.

A candidate can do a lot more than hope that they will succeed: they can feel sure of it, optimistic that whatever happens they can engage well at their viva.

Nathan

More Than Hope

Daily Post

You can hope that your viva will go well, but if you learn what to expect you can do something to make a difference.

You can hope that your examiners will be fair with you, but you can find out what they do to feel certain they will treat you well.

You can hope that you’ve done enough, but you can review your work and know you’ve made a contribution.

You can hope you’re prepared, but you can know you’re ready by planning, taking your time and doing the work.

You can hope you’re not too nervous, but also pursue confidence: reflect on your journey, take steps to get ready and remind yourself of what you’ve done to get this far.

You can do more than hope you’ll succeed at your viva.