I’ve been working on my conference paper by clarifying descriptions, adding more references and grouping data more precisely. I’ve also submitted my proposal for a conference taking place in Hong Kong next year.
Two weeks ago, I was struggling to stay motivated, and listening to audiobooks on how to be productive.
I was away from campus between January and May this year. When I returned, the academic year was ending so I had few opportunities to meet up with my colleagues before they left for their summer holidays.
Having a peaceful place and a quiet time at home is fantastic sometimes. At last, this week, my colleagues and I talked over coffee about how daily interactions with someone who understands what you are doing are important for our lives. In my two years as a PhD student, I have found that the most effective ways to be motivated or to recover from crises are talking to colleagues and exchanging feedback with one another about writing, tiny mistakes, relationships with supervisors, life, whatever.
My colleague, Sara told me that I must get through the current stage − chapter revisions − before starting my third year. The methodology chapter needs to be elaborated well enough to justify analytical dimensions when I start my third year. She said this is something I must be more serious about and I sincerely appreciate her comments. The relationship between PhD students is very much cooperative.
My birthday
I am celebrating my birthday!
Luca and I had planned to travel to York this weekend, but unfortunately, he got the flu this week so we decided to stay home.
Last night we very much enjoyed dinner and the Cirque Éloize show and today I am baking an almond and pear tart. My birthday resolution for the new year is to break out of my comfort zone, try new activities and socialise more.
My achievements in week 93
- submitted my paper abstract to a conference
- submitted a piece of coursework for the teaching programme
- started reading a key book closely
Goals for week 94
- work on my chapters
- work on my conference paper