Our next student Kent Diamond is Katrine, who founded the collaboration and PGR Support group INSPIRE in the School of Social Sciences. She regularly runs in-person and online events focussed on connection, writing, discussion and mutual support.
“My name is Katrine Callander and I am completing my PhD in Social Policy in the School of Social Sciences at Kent. My research explores how autistic women experience, narrate and make sense of cumulative and severe trauma, and how these experiences are shaped (and often compounded) by misrecognition within social, institutional and clinical systems. I use interdisciplinary, participatory and narrative approaches, and examine trauma as relational and political experiences, produced through power, stigma and failures of care. As neurodivergent woman, I am especially interested in how autistic women’s distress is frequently misunderstood, dismissed or reframed as personal deficit, and what this means for recognition, support and justice.
Alongside my PhD, I have worked as an Associate Lecturer and Module Convenor for the past two years and I try to bring an affirming and person-centred approach to both my research and teaching. I’m originally from Denmark, though I’ve lived in the UK for over 25 years. I’m also a mum to two young adults and in my spare time I enjoy hanging out with my kids (when they will let me), travelling, writing, long walks with my Golden Retriever and relaxing at home with my three cats.”
Can you share some of the ways you are supporting the School of Social Sciences PGR community?
“I support the School of Social Sciences PGR community through a mix of formal roles, peer-led initiatives and everyday, informal support. Since the start of my PhD in 2022, I have been a PGR Student Representative, taking part in the regular Student Voice Forums, and I sit on the PGR Student Advisory Board. In these roles, I advocate for doctoral students’ needs, raise concerns and contribute to discussions around wellbeing, supervision practices, workload expectations and inclusion.
One of my main contributions has been founding and organising the INSPIRE collaboration and PGR support group. INSPIRE (a slightly tenuous acronym for Integration of Social Science PhDs in Research and Engagement) runs regular PGR-led in-person and online events focused on connection, writing, discussion and mutual support. These days are designed to be flexible, hybrid and accessible, recognising the realities of juggling aspects such as caring responsibilities, disability, part-time study and paid work. They include writing sessions, research discussions, community forums and seminars, helping to reduce isolation and build a sense of belonging among us as Social Sciences PGRs.
In addition to these regular events, for the past three years I have organised and hosted an annual two-day in-person summer event for the PGR community. The first, in 2023, was an off-campus writing retreat that combined structured writing time with workshops on wellbeing, goal-setting and sustainable academic practice. In the past two years, these have become on-campus events, bringing together writing sessions, short research presentations, student voice forums, creative workshops, public engagement discussions and conversations about life after the PhD. These events are consistently shaped by what PGRs say they need in terms of community and opportunities to share and discuss.
I am an active part of the School of Social Sciences PGR WhatsApp group, which has become an important space for asking questions, sharing achievements, organising meetups and simply feeling part of a community. I also try to make myself available as a point of contact for new doctoral students, particularly those who are neurodivergent, international or returning to academia after time away. I try to use my background in peer support and neurodiversity-affirming coaching, to offer practical help, whether that means untangling university systems, talking through moments of burnout or finding ways to stay motivated without sacrificing wellbeing.
I’m very aware of how isolating the PhD journey can be. For me, a strong PGR community is built through small, everyday acts, like checking in, sharing experiences and supporting each other. I really enjoy being part of organising these spaces because they matter to me personally. They support me just as much as they support others.”
What are some of your favourite things about the University?
“One of my favourite things about the University of Kent is the people. The last few years have involved a lot of change and uncertainty, and during that time the PGR community, my fellow research students, faculty supporting us and the staff I work with (particularly in the Social Work team) have made a big difference to my day-to-day experience. I really value being part of a faculty that is committed and willing to have honest conversations about what higher education can and should be. I’m especially grateful for my supervisory team (Professor Chrissie Rogers and Dr. Damian Milton), who have shaped both my research and my confidence as I work towards submission.”
What advice would you give to Kent students?
“My advice is particularly aimed at research students at Kent as that has been my primary community during my research journey. Please remember that a PhD is not just an intellectual project, but for many of us, a deeply personal one. There will be moments of doubt and uncertainty, but we have all experienced that as part of the journey. Please don’t underestimate how much peer support matters. Ask questions, share struggles and take breaks without guilt. Your wellbeing is not separate from your work, it is part of what makes good, thoughtful research possible. We are here to support each other during what can be a hard (though also rewarding) and isolating extended period of research.”
What are your plans for next year?
“Over the next year, my main focus will be submitting my PhD and completing my viva. Alongside this, I hope to continue working in higher education, either at Kent or in a similar academic environment. I genuinely enjoy teaching, organising and supporting students, particularly in ways that make learning more accessible, inclusive and collaborative. I am especially interested in roles that combine teaching, research, practical support and community-building, as these are the aspects of academic life that feel most meaningful to me. I would like to continue developing work that brings together research, teaching and care for academic communities.”
The Kent Diamonds campaign recognises the students, staff and alumni that make Kent shine. Learn more about our Kent Diamonds and our other 60th Diamond Anniversary celebrations.