We all appreciate that without a PhD it is inevitable to get to the highest academic cadre. As an international student, speaking to someone who’s been there is a great place to start when considering a PhD – is it worth, where does someone start, what does it take, what’s the process, what does it involve?
In this blog, Anthony Weke, PhD Health Sciences at Newcastle University, shares his experience and what every international student needs to know.
When did you start thinking about pursuing a PhD? and why was it important to you?
I started thinking about pursuing a PhD in my second year of undergraduate studies because I was convinced a PhD is the right springboard to take me to the highest level where my impact can be felt more widely. Creating an impact at the population and global level was obviously very important to me. I began to make intentional steps such as applications and drafting of my proposal from the second month into my master’s programme.
Can you tell us what your research project involves and why chose this subject area?
My research area is smoking cessation with a focus on electronic cigarettes. I chose this area because smoking remains the leading preventable cause of premature mortality and morbidity globally. As a public health practitioner, what better place to make a worldwide impact? Electronic cigarettes are currently topical with its role in smoking cessation a contention amongst public health experts. I chose to focus on e-cigarette because of the ongoing interesting debates around it and its potential to either sabotage years of work around smoking cessation, or lead more people to quit smoking, depending on what part of the discourse you argue for.
How did you secure funding for your PhD?
I simply applied for a university-based scholarship which pays the difference between international and home fees. I work part time to finance the remainder of my fees and cost of living
What are some things/tips anyone should consider/know when looking for PhD funding?
If you are not fortunate to get a full scholarship, consider accepting a partial scholarship and making plans on how to fund the rest of the cost not covered by the PhD. Working part time can also be a good means of gaining experience while schooling and professional development.
Also consider accepting funded projects which is even slightly related to your interest area. They may not be exactly the kind of project you had in mind but there is room to move onto your preferred topics as an independent researcher after your PhD. Also, sometimes the project can be tweaked to your taste as some can be flexible after you’re accepted.
Tell us about a typical day in the life of a PhD student
This means that you have the amerikabulteni.com generico viagra on line freedom of inclination inside the planning of the sexual experiences, and it’s presently easy to accomplish and keep up an erection.A PhD is like an independent business owner. You plan your day to day activities and implement them according to your set timelines. You consult experts (in this case your supervisors) for valuable inputs and guidance. This means you define your typical day. You can choose to work all day or rest any day you feel the need to. The important thing is that you continue to progress.
Is there anything you wish you’d known before starting a PhD?
I am still in the early stages of my PhD and I constantly evolve in how I handle my PhD when I realise something new. So I have not realised any wish that is too late for me to adjust to. However, the best advice I can give anyone going into PhD studies is to always remember that a PhD is only a part of your life and not your entire life at that point in time. Do other things that make you happy during your PhD studies. Plan very well to make out time for travel, family, relationships and friendships, sports, networking, social life, etc. Otherwise it can get boring and lonely working on one piece of research for 3 years or more.
In your estimation, how will the PhD help with your career progression? What are your next steps?
A PhD opens up limitless possibilities to work in various sectors especially at managerial levels. The thought that PhD is meant for only those thinking of going into academia is erroneous. I’m still yet undecided whether to continue with Academia or fieldwork. I am taking the time for self-discovery to see which area appeals more to me and what opportunities present themselves before completion of my studies.
In your experience, what are some of the misconceptions about doing a PhD?
The biggest misconception is that you need to be a genius to do a PhD. You may need to demonstrate your ability to carry out independent research during your application, but the general requirements are definitely not designed to screen out people whose intelligence quotient are below genius level.
What advice would you give to any prospective PhD students, especially international students thinking about doing a PhD?
For prospective students, the advice is to start your PhD with an open mind willing to unlearn and learn new things. During your PhD, views, opinions and sentiments can change rapidly as you rediscover yourself and challenge the status quo in attempt to add to the body of scientific knowledge.
For international students, there are fewer funding opportunities than available for masters programs, but if you keep searching, pushing and willing to make compromise, you will eventually get a place.
What’s the most valuable/rewarding aspect of a PhD in your experience?
The most rewarding aspects of my PhD has been the ability to network with renowned researcher and public office holders. Tapping from great minds and developing myself rapidly. I also value the opportunity to be able to be in control of my research and steer my development in the direction I want.