Best of Viva Survivors 2023: Reflections

If you read through any handful of posts on Viva Survivors you’ll come across a reflection. With the work that I do supporting postgraduate researchers – and having done this for a very long time now – I like to reflect, look for patterns, look for connections and try to find interesting ways to explore what the viva is all about.

You’ll read many more reflections on the viva, viva prep and everything related in 2024 – but tomorrow look out for my favourite short posts of 2023.

Viva Views

Your viva is a lot of work, both in prep and on the day.

Your viva is one day at the end of a thousand or so.

Your viva is likely to be a difficult but not insurmountable challenge.

Your viva is an event that you can feel nervous and confident for.

Your viva is yours and yours alone, unique compared to every other that’s gone before.

Your viva is similar to many other vivas that have happened (and will happen in the future).

Your viva is not the end of the PhD, but you’re getting close.