Share What You Need

There are institutional regulations and general expectations that underpin what might happen at a viva – and yet so much of what happens in every viva is unique.

One aspect of this is simply a person’s situation and needs. Nevermind that every thesis and the research is unique – every candidate has their own preferences, requirements and situation. You might like to do things a certain way or want things to happen in a certain way at your viva.

In some cases you might need particular support to help you get ready or to help your viva be a fair and accessible experience for you. Your institution’s regulations will show you what you need to do if that’s the case; universities have got a lot better at listening to their PhD candidates who need support in the last decade but none are perfect at following processes. If you have needs for your viva then you might have to follow up and make sure that the right people know the right information.

For more general needs talk to your allies. Ask for practical support from your supervisors, friends and family. Reach out to your graduate school or doctoral college to see what help they offer people getting ready for their viva.

Support isn’t just for the viva itself. Think about what you need from others to help you get ready.