New Beginnings
The viva is an ending but also sparks questions about where your research could go next. What could someone do with your work, now that your thesis is finished? What would be the next steps for your research if you...
the end of the phd
The Hardest Part
Viva preparation is a big part of getting ready. It takes time for a candidate to make sure their thesis is ready and that they feel prepared to sit down and talk with their examiners. Lots of practical tasks and...
Considering Outcomes
A few loose thoughts… Viva regulations are impersonal. They give structure. Section 2, paragraph 3, check appendix 2A. Regulations say yes and no. They specify and describe: this is a pass, this is a fail. But viva outcomes...
Be Early
Be early for your viva. Be early so you can take a breath or two and appreciate these last moments on this side of the milestone. In one moment you’re working towards your PhD, getting ready for your viva –...
Was That It?
Today marks fifteen years since I submitted my final PhD thesis. I remember that I went with a friend to hand my copies in. I wanted someone to be a witness with me to this great moment. The university admin...
Just A Moment
Just a moment. That’s all you need, compared to the years of work in your PhD already, in order to get ready for your viva. Just a moment. The shortest of pauses, used regularly throughout the viva, is all you’ll...
Before You Forget
There will be congratulations after your viva, from examiners and others, telling you how well you’ve done, how great you are and starting the necessary celebrations for a wonderfully big and amazing thing! And before the celebrations really start to...
The End Result
Remember what you’re working towards. You need to submit your thesis, but you’re not working towards that. You need to prepare for your viva, but the work isn’t for the sake of preparation. And you want to pass your viva,...
Before You Know It
It’s almost twenty years since I started my PhD. I remember the first week very clearly, sitting at my desk, skim-reading through papers I couldn’t grasp, making notes and chatting with my office-mates. I very distinctly remember thinking, “I don’t...
Measuring PhD Success
What does PhD success mean? I’ve heard lots of possible ideas over the years: No corrections? Is that the goal? Two or more publications? Is that what you want? Or need? Just getting through?! Is that enough? Feeling proud at...