Blog Article
Patience Domingos has studied at BCU since 2000, completing two bachelor’s degrees, a Master’s and is now studying in her final year of her PhD! Here, she shares her top 6 pieces of advice and offers some words of wisdom for those undertaking a research degree.
1. The route of a research degree is often winding
The PhD process is often romanticised as a linear path to discovery, but it is full of ups and downs, moments of doubt, and unexpected twists.
If there is one thing I have learned on this PhD journey, it is that persistence is key, but so is kindness to yourself.
My biggest piece of advice is to embrace those moments, because they are part of your growth, both as a researcher and as a person.
2. Allow yourself time to acclimatise
First, do not be afraid to take your time finding your footing. In my first year, I had to redefine my research methodology, which felt overwhelming at the time. Looking back, it was one of the most important steps in shaping the study into something I am truly proud of. Allow yourself the space to learn and evolve and know that it is okay to not have everything figured out from the beginning.
3. Form meaningful connections
Secondly, build your support network. I cannot emphasise enough how much leaning on my supervisors, colleagues, and even friends helped me. You do not have to do this alone. Sometimes, a fresh perspective or a reassuring conversation is exactly what you need to regain your motivation and focus. It is okay to ask for help, and it is okay to need it.
4. Remind yourself of your purpose
Another important piece of advice is to stay connected to why you started this journey. For me, it was my passion for the well-being of healthcare workers that kept me going.
There will be days when the workload feels insurmountable, and the progress slow but remembering why this work matters, and who it will impact, can reignite that spark when you need it most.
5. Take pride in small steps forward
Finally, celebrate your small wins along the way. Whether it’s completing a chapter, presenting your findings, or simply having a breakthrough in your thinking, these moments are just as important as the final thesis submission. Don’t wait until the end to recognise your progress and acknowledge it throughout.
6. Recognise the value you are adding
A PhD is not just about obtaining a degree; it is about personal growth, resilience (or endurance), and finding your voice as a researcher. Stay passionate, stay curious, and most importantly, be kind to yourself throughout the process. You are building something that will have a lasting impact, and that takes time, patience, and a lot of heart.