Q&A

  • Q&A

    How to manage deadlines over the holidays?

    Q: How do you meet deadlines while also enjoying holiday breaks?

    A: This is hard because as much as we can try to plan ahead, sometimes we still have work to do when it seems like everyone else is relaxing and enjoying some time off.  For me, I like to set aside time for work ideally in the morning before anyone else in the house knows I’m awake.  It’s also helpful to think about how you can fit in work while traveling.  Can you read in the car?  Convert that article into an audio file and then listen while you’re on the plane? It’s certainly not ideal, but it’s not impossible.  Check out more suggestions from the GGW Community here.

  • Q&A, The Academy

    Staying Motivated while Writing?

    Q: How do you stay motivated to write your thesis/dissertation? (from my student advisee)

    A: I’ve been asking myself this same question for quite some time given that September made one month since I started working on my dissertation.  I find it really helpful to have a daily writing goal.  I say 250 words but usually go over it, which is quite gratifying.  I also like to set small and large rewards for myself. I’ve seen people use sticker charts to keep track of their progress too. Someone also suggested Finish Your Dissertation Once and For All! By Alison B. Miller.

  • Mental Health, Q&A, The Academy

    Imposter syndrome as a PhD with no MA?

    Q: How do you manage feelings of intimidation/imposter syndrome as a new PhD student who does not have a master’s degree?

    A: Whew this is a BIG question and definitely something I’ve experienced firsthand.  I think that the first thing is to acknowledge what you are feeling and then try to put things into perspective.  It’s likely that the other students also doubt their abilities even with a MA. Just because your fellow cohort members have an additional degree, but that has absolutely no bearing on your abilities.  You were admitted because the admissions committee believed that, even without an MA, you could thrive.  You can. I’d also suggest checking out this recent GGW podcast on Imposter Syndrome. 

    Read more advice from the Grad Girl Wellness Community by checking out this post.

  • Q&A, The Academy

    How to spend summer break?

    Q: What’s the best way to spend your summer in between semesters?

    A: This is a difficult question to answer because summer expectations vary by discipline and how far along someone is in their program.  I’ve spent a lot of my summers either studying for comprehensive exams, doing fieldwork and now writing.  What I would offer to anyone is to think about one thing that you always wished that you could do during the school year, whether it’s Netflix or using that free trial of Class Pass, and make time for that. This will *help* balance out whatever academic responsibilities you have and make things feel like you actually are treating yourself to something you really want.