Welcome back to my PhDiary (if you’re a returning guest), and well, Hello! If this is your first time 😊
As I write this, I’m 16.66% through my PhD journey, and it’s wild to think about how I’d encourage someone who isn’t yet in the ‘post-grad’ mindset. This is a place I was in not too long ago, fresh out of undergrad and figuring out my next steps.
I connect with post-grad students quite regularly, and from the conversations I’ve had, I’ve created a detailed flow of ‘stuff’ I believe could be useful for anyone who is either considering doing a post-grad (particularly a PhD) or a scholar who feels they have hit a hard wall. You are not alone!
- Follow the Arrows
I get it—the pressure to have everything figured out by the time you finish undergrad is intense. Society often writes out milestones for this stage of life: graduate from college, get a job, know what you want to do forever!!! But I’m here to tell you (as a friend who’s chatted with many post-grads and is in the same boat myself) that it’s okay not to have the full puzzle figured out right now. Deciding to pursue (or not pursue) a PhD isn’t the be-all and end-all of your life. If an opportunity opens up for you, take it. As author Emily P. Freeman says on her podcast The Next Right Thing, follow the “life arrows” that enter the scene of your life. Sometimes we get overly critical of our journeys that we miss out on the golden nuggets that fall on our lot. Arrows can be a safe path—signifying how safe you are to follow it.
- Ask Questions
I know it’s tough to ask questions when you don’t even know what you should be asking. But some of the most important questions come from the ones you thought were pointless or a waste of time. If you’re considering a PhD but aren’t sure if it’s the right fit for you, reach out to universities (locally or internationally) about their programs. Ask about what the journey would look like. If you’re in university, connect with post-grads in your faculty, or look for virtual post-grad groups on university websites.
- Consider Funding Options
It’s true that post-grad life can be intellectually stimulating and flexible, but it doesn’t come cheap. Start researching early on the costs of your program, including research materials, consumables, and conference fees. Being proactive has been a game-changer for me—I applied for multiple funding opportunities and bursaries well in advance. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the university or potential supervisors, as they might have studentships or funding options available.
I’ll soon be sharing a blog post with some funding options (especially for international students), so stay tuned!
- Demarcate Your WHY in Advance
Having a clear, tangible reason for why you’re pursuing a PhD has been a huge source of encouragement for me on tough days. Whether it’s in the form of a letter to yourself or a simple list, outlining your motivation is key. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be yours. For me, it was about challenging myself in ways I never had before, discovering what I’m truly made of, both academically and personally. This reason keeps me going when the temptation to slack off or give in to anxiety is strong.
- Build a Community
Last but definitely not least—cultivate a community that you can trust to share your struggles and aspirations. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve doubted myself, feeling like I wasn’t smart enough or capable enough to even attempt a PhD. (Yes, anxiety can even convince you that you’re not “fit” for it.) But my friends, family, and academic mentors have been incredible at challenging me, encouraging me, and reminding me of why I started this journey. I’m also part of a book club with brilliant, humble thought leaders (#SpeedReaders), and surrounding myself with these inspiring people has made a world of difference in my journey.
I can’t stress this enough—having a supportive community is a game-changer.
Here’s an example of mine.
If you’re unsure where to start with any of these steps (especially the community-building part), I’m here to help. Send me a DM on Instagram @jedidiah_pink and we can take it from there — a hello, and perhaps even a virtual coffee.
Until next time.
Thanks for following my molecular memoirs.