Earlier this year I was shortlisted for a PhD scholarship. I’d only seen the opportunity five days before the deadline so had to work quick to make something tangible out of the niggling PhD ideas I have had for awhile. Although I wasn’t selected for that opportunity, it did make me realise how much I had missed my MA experience and how much I love research and creativity. And I am very thankful to my former lecturers for their support and references.
Fortunately, the prospective supervisor was keen to chat in more detail about an alternative fully-funded PhD.
And so this week I have been trying to formalise my thoughts - at least I have about 4 weeks until the deadline this time - and write a clear and robust proposal. I’m not sure if I’ve just overthought my proposal and made to many changes and I now feel huge doubt about my capability. I’m sure this is natural and understand many people will struggle with their confidence when doing something new and challenging. But despite this, I do feel determined to keep going as I believe my research will bring something new to the table.
It’s a big decision to take on a PhD. If you were to ask me right now why I want to do, all I can say is it feels like an itch that desperately needs scratching.
I have a wonderful main job, and if offered a place, it would mean only working part-time, if that can even be an option; I’ve yet to check.
I’ve loved taking the academic journey through my MA in Photography later in life - I did that while working full-time and still gained a distinction. So it is possible, but, when there are also other personal considerations to take in account such as finances and relationships, doing a PhD is not something everyone can do easily.
Yet I still need to try. I’d rather try and not be selected than not try at all. As my potential supervisor said it will be a painful process, but without some pain the pleasure when you succeed is surely more keenly felt.
If you have or are applying for a PhD, I’d love to hear about how you found or are finding the process.