Read the other winning entry here. It's a dangerous thing, asking a third-year Ph.D. student about their research experiences. Pressurised, disillusioned, and bitter, don't expect an enthusiastic response! Still, who better to give an honest, warts 'n' all account? And if you are thinking about doing a Ph.D., or you're going round the country looking for the right project, the best thing you can ...
BACK TO THE FEATURE INDEX Currently I am working overseas for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in Malawi. You may be wondering what took a biology graduate from rural Oregon to sub-Saharan Africa, to work at the intersection of two important development sectors--health and education. Well, I actually didn't plan a career in international development work. But, if there is one...
If you get the opportunity to go to a Research Councils' Graduate School, go! I came back fizzing with enthusiasm from one such course in Durham and tried to explain to other Ph.D. students just why it was so good and why they too should grab the opportunity. And frankly, I failed. Explaining that the 5-day course provides training in career skills and personal development, and involves role-play...
