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So I finished the coursework for my PhD this semester and here are 13 things I have learned:
1. The 4.0 is probably not worth the agony I put myself through. I think I would be a lot less tired and more balanced if I spent less time so anxious about this the last 2.5 years
1. The 4.0 is probably not worth the agony I put myself through. I think I would be a lot less tired and more balanced if I spent less time so anxious about this the last 2.5 years
2. Coursework really is a tasting menu and not some all inclusive ticket to knowing everything. It gives you the tools to come back to the areas.
3. Somethings won’t feel relevant at the time, but it does eventually connect and you’ll be glad you have notes and the exposure
3. Somethings won’t feel relevant at the time, but it does eventually connect and you’ll be glad you have notes and the exposure
4. Don’t compare grades, timelines, or accomplishments. Play stupid games, win stupid prizes. I am naturally very competitive and have to regularly check myself.
5. Pool resources, notes, bibliographies, etc with your cohort. You learn more when you can all share perspectives.
6. Write everything down- ideas, conversations with students, plans, appointments. You won’t remember
6. Write everything down- ideas, conversations with students, plans, appointments. You won’t remember
7. Find a trusted peer to trade drafts with. Get over your embarrassment. The only way to get feedback is to share your writing.
8. All first drafts are hot trash, so stop wasting time trying to write perfectly. Word vomit if you need, let it marinate and then edit
8. All first drafts are hot trash, so stop wasting time trying to write perfectly. Word vomit if you need, let it marinate and then edit
9. Growing thicker skin is a process. Student evals and rejections often sting, but it gets easier.
10. People will cut you down based on their own insecurities. Don’t be that person, and don’t take these people seriously.
10. People will cut you down based on their own insecurities. Don’t be that person, and don’t take these people seriously.
10.5 consider the source of the criticism. This year a peer announced my research interest wasn’t “really a thing anymore” in a zoom meeting in front of all the grad students in my dept. That research interest was QAnon/far right discourses. 
11. Be your own advocate. Don’t be afraid to apply for things. I applied for a fellowship this year that was a LOT of effort and didn’t get it, but it forced me to really think about my diss topic. I learned a lot from the experience too!
12. You are ultimately responsible for your education and need to become a self-directed learner.
13. Take care of yourself. Your degree is important but not worth breaking yourself for. I really love what I study, and when I’m healthy it’s easier to remember that
13. Take care of yourself. Your degree is important but not worth breaking yourself for. I really love what I study, and when I’m healthy it’s easier to remember that
